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Bring knowledge back to Earth

Let's come together and demonstrate the impact that research has on the real world.

Astronaut

Focus on Impact

In today's complex world, addressing global challenges requires translating knowledge into tangible societal benefits.  At the same time, there's a heartfelt call for reform within the academic community, driven by a desire for improved recognition, fairer career paths, and better incentives. In this environment, universities and funding agencies are under increased scrutiny to demonstrate the impact of their work, align with national priorities and prove their value to the public, funders, and stakeholders.  This journey goes beyond conventional metrics; it's about a shared commitment to making a meaningful difference. 

Back to Earth

Exploring academia’s desire to demonstrate the real-world impact of research and set a trajectory for more holistic evaluation, Back to Earth: Landing real-world impact in academic evaluation examines progress to date, barriers to change, and potential next steps.

Gain insights into the perspectives of 400 surveyed academic leaders, funders and researchers on the importance of impact in research evaluation and and how the academic community must work together to evolve current systems.

Download the Back to Earth report

Back to Earth report cover

The Future of Evaluation

Institutions and their researchers face mounting pressure to demonstrate their wider value; for example, their contributions in areas such as open science, societal change, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

At the same time, there are calls to improve recognition and incentives and provide researchers with fairer career paths. The academic community needs a new evaluation structure that not only meets all these needs, but is equitable, effective, and inclusive.

In this report, we hear from global academic leaders and heads of funding bodies about what they would like to see change and how they see the system evolving. 

Download the Future of Evaluation report

Future of Evaluation

Key findings from new reports

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Examples of key findings:

  • 66% of respondents said academia has a moral responsibility to incorporate real-world impact into standard research assessment

  • 53% said a more holistic approach to assessment would improve research cost-effectiveness

  • The current system, with its emphasis on articles and citations, does not align with desired outcomes. There is wide support for reform towards a system that also addresses education and societal impact.

  • Balancing research & education is key: For example, acknowledging that research underpins education, especially at research-intensive universities

66%

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