Free University of Berlin joins coalition for research reforms!

Free University of Berlin joins coalition for research reforms!

The Free University of Berlin recently joined the Coalition for Advancing Research Assessment (CoARA), an important initiative founded in 2022. This coalition includes numerous research institutions, funding organizations and universities from Europe and aims to advance the reform of research assessment in the European science system. The reform focuses on recognizing the quality of scientific work beyond quantitative indicators such as the journal impact factor or university rankings. According to [fu-berlin.de], the principles of this reform are intended to promote a more holistic, transparent and fair assessment of academic performance.

A central element of this initiative is the “Agreement on Reforming Research Assessment” (ARRA), which all members must sign. The main principles of the reform include qualitative assessments, promoting diversity and openness and strengthening the autonomy of organizations. Freie Universität is committed to developing an action plan to implement these principles within one year, with a full cycle of reforms targeted within five years.

Focus on quality and transparency

The reform not only focuses on the quality of scientific contributions, but also takes into account essential aspects such as data, software and transfer payments. A crucial concern is strengthening open access and open research practices to avoid misunderstandings in metrology. The focus should be more on the content of the publications than on the respective publication location or any impact factors, as [wikipedia.org] explains.

CoARA also strives to promote cultural change in research assessment. Members are committed to the responsible use of quantitative indicators while promoting transparent assessment through peer reviews. These new evaluation systems should also be used in important decisions such as hiring and project financing.

International context

According to information from [oabb.pubpub.org], research assessment reform is a key issue in the global scientific community, aimed at reducing reliance on quantitative metrics. The coalition has over 700 members from different countries, including well-known institutions across Germany such as the Charité and the Technical University of Berlin, which have already signed the ARRA.

The CoARA secretariat is located at the European Science Foundation (ESF). In addition, CoARA coordinates the CoARA Boost project, which supports implementation projects with funding of up to 1.1 million euros from Horizon Europe. The coalition in Germany, founded at the national level, now provides a forum for discussions around research assessment and ensures that all parties involved are involved in the implementation of the ARRA principles.

The Free University of Berlin is supported during this process by its university library, which provides specialist expertise as well as infrastructure and advisory services. The development of qualitatively oriented assessment practices is participatory, working closely with representatives from all disciplines at the university. This once again demonstrates the coalition's gradual and strategic approach to reforming research assessment in an ever-changing scientific environment.