Why a working group on Research Assessment and Incentives?
Trustworthy research is built on rigor, transparency and reproducibility. Yet, current research assessment systems for hiring, promotion and funding often seem to fail to recognise the research practices that foster these essential qualities. The SwissRN Working Group (WG) on Research Assessment and Incentives aims to explore how researchers can be better acknowledged and rewarded for strengthening the integrity and credibility of their research. Through dialogue with institutions and key stakeholders, the group seeks to drive a culture shift toward a responsible research assessment system – one that values and incentivises good research practices.
SwissRN Dialogue Series on Research Assessment and Incentives
The challenge
Current reforms in research assessment are often implemented through top-down processes. While these initiatives aim to reward high-quality, reproducible research, a significant communication gap remains between science policymakers and the researchers, students, lecturers, research support staff and managers who are impacted by these changes every day.
Our approach: A community-led dialogue
The SwissRN Dialogue Series is designed to bridge this gap. We believe that for a culture shift to be successful, the voices of those “on the ground” must be central to the transition.
How it works
- Community collection: We collect anonymised questions and “wishes” from researchers, lecturers, students, and support staff across all disciplines.
- Example Question: “How does the SNSF intend to reward the time spent on data sharing?”
- Example Wish: “I wish my institution acknowledged the hours I dedicate to rigorous peer review.”
Direct stakeholder engagement: The SwissRN Working Group forwards these community inputs directly to relevant stakeholders – including funding organisations and research institution leadership – requesting their response or clarification.
Public transparency: Responses are published on this website as interactive “flashcards.” This format provides a clear, transparent record of how policymakers intend to address the needs and priorities of the community.
Current Team (alphabetical order)
Celine Capelli (UZH), Virginia Chiocchia (UniBe) 
, Jamie Cummins (UniBe) , Rachel Heyard (UZH) , Fjola Hyseni (UniBas) , Jan-Erik Refle (UNIL)
Contact person
Join us! Contact Rachel Heyard