Towards Responsible Research Career Assessment

Growing evidence suggests that the evaluation of researchers’ careers on the basis of narrow definitions of excellence is restricting diversity in academia, both in the development of its labour force and its approaches to address societal challenges. The current research evaluation system is hampering diverse career pathways spanning research, teaching and (community) service. It inhibits the inclusion and retention of minorities, women, people from lower socio-economic backgrounds and meaningful public engagement with research. Improving the evaluation system in a concerted effort with research institutes and other funders will help fully realize a European Research Area (ERA) that is open to all talents. This diversity is essential to sustain academic careers, to strengthen the relevance and impact of science for society, and to enhance the resilience of our society and environment.