About CWTS
- Methodology
- A central methodology is bibliometric analysis; this methodology is used for the design and construction of quantitative indicators to study the development of science. CWTS applies this methodology for research evaluation and science mapping. We have longstanding –over 20 years- experience with research output databases, data processing, data validation and the development of advanced bibliometric indicators for the assessment of the international impact and the benchmarking of research, at national, institutional and departmental levels.
- Data
- The core of our bibliometric data system consists of the Thomson Scientific Web of Science data; we are continuously expanding our data system with other major scientific databases such as SCOPUS and additional data based on our R&D and contract work for many governmental agencies, the EC, universities, and industry.
- Mission and ambition
- Our mission is to conduct cutting-edge basic and applied research in our field and to develop advanced applications on the basis of our research. Our ambition is to maintain and reinforce our position in the world-top of the field, both in research as well as in applications, and also in building bridges to other relevant fields of science such as library and documentation research, information and communication research, statistics, physics of complex networks, and sociology of science.
- Strategy
- The strategy of CWTS is to conduct R&D in the field of quantitative studies of science and technology and to develop products and services as well as teaching activities based on our R&D that address essential needs in science and technology policy and research management. We have a fully integrated infrastructure to meet our goals. Our competitive edge lies in the strength of our bibliometric data system enabling us to create and apply high-value bibliometric indicators and maps. With this core capability we are well positioned to be one of the major players worldwide in the science and technology indicators and mapping arena.
- Academic work and business
- CWTS is an academic institute with a substantial part of its budget from external sources such as contract research and consultancy services. In 2002 we started a business company. This company, CWTSbv, commercializes the products and services based on R&D and intellectual property of CWTS. The company is established and operates under the laws of the Netherlands, with registered offices in Leiden, affiliated to the Centre for Science and Technology Studies (CWTS), Leiden University. CWTSbv is part of the Leiden University Business Development Holding Structure and 100% owned by Leiden University.
