Connecting Open Science and Research Assessment Reform

Open science advances and research assessment reform mutually reinforce and interdependently drive research cultures, based on shared values and progressive R&I policy and practice. Actions in these areas often overlap and can be more effective when combined.

This Position Statement presents a shared vision where aligned assessment systems and open science principles enable research cultures that reward quality, integrity, and collaboration. In doing so, they strengthen research and innovation systems, and support a diverse and inclusive ecosystem of talented individuals, effective teams, and career pathways. Ultimately, they ensure that excellence in research is defined by – and grounded in – our shared values, for the benefit of all.

It makes recommendations to guide a strategic alignment of key actions and interventions by RFOs and RPOs to advance open science, in line with the research assessment reform movement and principles of effective culture change, to drive research culture shifts and most effectively contribute to progressive R&I policies.

The statement is the result of a three-year collaboration between the Science Europe Working Groups on Research Culture and Open Science. It reflects the collective expertise and experience of Science Europe's members and a rigorous analysis of the academic evidence base: it builds on a 2024 Membership Survey and a Scoping Review of academic literature.