Has Open Access become a 'band-aid' for an historical 'innovation-gone-wrong'?

In this blog post, we examine key historical moments in research assessment, access to, and affordability of published research, to explain why Open Access and its economic models have become an incremental solution to a problem requiring a revolutionary change.

Alesia Zuccala, Lars Wenaas and Alberto Martin Martin • November 16, 2023

Introducing the CWTS ECR/PhD Council

In this blog post, we'll introduce you to the CWTS ECR/PhD Council, shedding light on its significance, objectives, and how it can serve as a crucial resource for early career researchers and PhDs at CWTS.

Dmitry Kochetkov and Qianqian Xie • November 08, 2023

Does science need heroes?

Does science need heroes or does it need to reform? Idolizing heroes can worsen bias, inequality, and competition in science. Yet, it does require good leadership to ignite structural change. This commentary for a Rijksmuseum Boerhaave symposium on prize cultures aims to address this paradox.

Sarah de Rijcke • October 11, 2023

The Leiden Ranking goes beyond ranking

Today the CWTS Leiden Ranking and the INORMS More Than Our Rank initiative announce a new partnership, aimed at highlighting the accomplishments of universities beyond what is captured in university rankings.

Elizabeth Gadd, Ludo Waltman and Nees Jan van Eck • September 27, 2023

Research(er) assessment that considers open science

A key challenge in the reform of research assessment is to recognise and reward the adoption of open scientific practices. In this post, Anestis Amanatidis reflects on this challenge and invites you to join the conversation in bimonthly online meetings.

Anestis Amanatidis • September 26, 2023

The Role of University Rankings in Research Evaluation Revisited

How are rankings used in research evaluation and excellence initiatives? The author presents a literature review using English and Russian sources, as well as gray literature. The Russian case is highlighted, where rankings have had an essential role in research evaluation and policy until recently.

Dmitry Kochetkov • August 22, 2023

Why coverage matters: Invisibility of agricultural research from the Global South may be an obstacle to development

To support development and sustainability in the Global South, contextual and locally appropriate knowledge on agriculture needs to be visible and accessible. Improving coverage in global open scholarly infrastructures can play a crucial role in increasing visibility.

Ismael Rafols, Madhan Muthu, Josep-Manuel Rodríguez-Gairín, Marta Somoza-Fernández and Cristóbal Urbano • July 21, 2023

Doing science in times of climate breakdown

Whose side are scientists on in times of climate breakdown? Science is often called upon to provide knowledge and expertise to address global challenges and accelerate towards sustainable futures. But, critical times ask for critical thinking on science for sustainability.

Renate Reitsma and Sarah de Rijcke • July 06, 2023