CWTS hits new paths

Is it possible to measure the impact of science on the society? What are the disadvantages of the increasingly sophisticated ranking and scoreboards? And what are the effects of the current evaluation culture on knowledge production? These are some examples of questions that are central in the new research program of the Centre for Science and Technology Studies (CWTS).


Responding to a need

There is growing need among managers of universities and research institutes to use performance measurement tools. CWTS reacts to this need with the introduction of its new research program Merit, Expertise and Measurement. CWTS is a recognized leader in the field of scientometrics; the systematic measurement of research quality. Currently, CWTS is exploring new venues. CWTS also aims to expand the theoretical foundation for developing indicators.

Five new working groups

The research as described in the working programme is conducted by five new working groups, each led by a senior researcher.

  • Advanced bibliometric methodology (Ludo Waltman PhD)
  • The practice of evaluating research in context (Sarah de Rijcke PhD)
  • Bibliometric indicators for humanities and social sciences (Thed van Leeuwen PhD)
  • Societal impact of research (Ingeborg Meijer PhD)
  • Career policy and career paths in science (Inge van der Weijden PhD)
These five working groups work closely together with the already existing research chairs in the CWTS. The chairs are: Scientometrics (prof. dr. Paul Wouters), Science and Innovation Studies (prof. dr. Robert Tijssen) and Science Policy Studies (prof. dr. Cornelis van Bochove).

More information

More information about the Centre for Science and Technology Studies CWTS and its new research programme is in the extended press release and the complete Cwts research programme 2012-2017:
Merit, Expertise and Measurement

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Last Modified: 18-12-2012