Advancing Research Assessment in Serbia: A Pilot Project for the Institute of Economic Sciences – ARISE

Programme: Horizon Europe – CoARA Boost

Funder: European Commission

Project lead: dr Isidora Beraha

Duration: 01.09.2025 – 31.08.2026

Project description:

The ARISE project aims to develop and pilot a qualitative, peer-review-based research assessment model at the Institute of Economic Sciences (IES) in Serbia, aligned with the CoARA commitments. It addresses key shortcomings in the national framework, which relies heavily on quantitative metrics - a system widely criticized across disciplines, especially by social sciences institutes.

By co-creating an inclusive model with researchers and leadership, ARISE shifts the focus from individual publication counts to the performance of research departments, emphasizing quality, societal relevance, and impact. The model will be piloted through self-assessment reports and external peer reviews, engaging researchers across career stages. An interdisciplinary Advisory Board with representatives from all scientific fields will guide broader relevance and future adaptation.

The project will initiate model adoption across Serbia’s 11 social science institutes (employing around 350 researchers) and serve as a strategic entry point for wider national reform. Scalable tools, guidance, and policy recommendations will be produced to support future reforms.

As the only CoARA signatory in Serbia, IES will build on its leadership and previous initiatives, in particular two national forums on research assessment organized in 2024 with the support of the Ministry of Science, Technological Development and Innovation, which positioned the Institute as a key driver of national reform efforts.