The R&D system in Spain needs significant improvements to achieve economic and social progress. Inadequate financing, lack of interdisciplinary research importance, the need for a research pact, and evaluation of researchers are key areas that require attention. This article will focus on evaluation and talent attraction in research in Spain.
Researchers in Spain are primarily evaluated based on bibliometric criteria, which includes publication volume, citations, and numerical measures. However, peer evaluation is often excluded from the process, leading to a lack of in-depth analysis of researchers’ contributions. While this approach is seen as objective and cost-effective, it may not accurately reflect the quality of scientific contributions.
The practice of publishing in high-impact journals is common but does not guarantee high-quality scientific contributions. Some unethical practices such as artificial citation boosts and salami publication skew the evaluation system. To improve the evaluation process, international criteria like DORA and comprehensive peer evaluation should be incorporated.
The current evaluation system incentivizes researchers to prioritize citations over meaningful contributions leading to talent flight and low retention rates. To attract and retain talent in the R&D system, Spain should adopt models from successful countries like the UK. Providing stable contracts, competitive salaries, and exciting research projects are essential to retain talent in the R&D sector.
Looking at successful international models and addressing key questions about the role of research in universities and private companies is crucial for improving Spain’s R&D system. A paradigm shift in talent management and creating an environment that excites young researchers are necessary steps for progress.
Overall, implementing these changes will lead to a more robust and competitive R&D system aligned with leading countries worldwide.
To sum up, improving the evaluation process by incorporating international criteria like DORA and comprehensive peer evaluation will help recognize meaningful contributions by researchers beyond bibliometric metrics. Additionally, adopting models from successful countries like providing stable contracts, competitive salaries, exciting research projects can help attract talented individuals who contribute positively to R&D growth.
It is important for Spain’s government to focus on creating an environment that fosters innovation through supporting researchers’ work while also promoting collaboration between academia and industry sectors. With these changes implemented correctly