The Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA) has launched A Practical Guide to Implementing Responsible Research Assessment at Research Performing Organizations to coincide with the organization’s 12th anniversary. Developed through extensive community engagement, the guide offers actionable strategies for institutions seeking to reform research assessment practices.
The guide introduces a series of implementation-focused activities, including leadership engagement, the formation of dedicated working groups, and the development of communication and engagement plans. Drawing on insights gathered over more than a decade of collaboration with the DORA community, it outlines critical intervention points within researcher and research assessment processes where meaningful change can occur. The publication also highlights global case studies from institutions in Canada, Denmark, and Japan, showcasing diverse approaches to responsible research assessment (RRA).
To support the international research community, DORA will host three online panel sessions in May 2025. These events will feature introductions by DORA’s Chairs and commentary from invited speakers on the guide’s application across varied institutional contexts:
• Asia-Pacific: Thursday, 15 May 2025, 14:00 AEST
• Africa & Europe: Friday, 16 May 2025, 10:00 BST
• Americas: Friday, 16 May 2025, 14:00 EDT
The guide was co-developed in consultation with stakeholders who convened in Maryland, USA, on 31 January 2025. It forms part of Project TARA, an initiative supported by Arcadia—a charitable foundation focused on cultural preservation, environmental conservation, and open access to knowledge. The guide complements other Project TARA resources, including Reformscape, Building Blocks for Impact, and Debiasing Committee Composition, which collectively support institutions in transitioning toward more equitable and informed research evaluation practices.
Click here to read the original press release.
