Dutch research evaluations get a makeover: new protocol simplifies assessment of scientific quality
From 2027, Dutch universities and research institutions will use a streamlined evaluation protocol to assess scientific research. The new system focuses on societal impact and flexibility, affecting thousands of researchers and their funding prospects.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| New Protocol | Strategy Evaluation Protocol 2027-2033 (SEP) |
| Issuing Bodies | Universities of the Netherlands (UNL), NWO, KNAW |
| Evaluation Frequency | Every six years per research unit |
| Evaluation Method | Self-assessment + site visit by external committee |
| Focus | Quality, societal relevance, and viability of research units |
| Transition Period | 2027 evaluations can use either new or old protocol (2021-2027) |
| Working Conference | 22 April 2026, Utrecht |
| More Information | UNL Website |
The Universities of the Netherlands (UNL), NWO, and KNAW are key players in shaping Dutch research policy. They set standards for evaluating scientific quality, which influence funding decisions and the strategic direction of research institutions across the country.
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Scientific organisations present new evaluation protocol for research
Universities of the Netherlands, NWO and the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) have updated the evaluation protocol for scientific research. The Strategy Evaluation Protocol 2027-2033 (SEP) is primarily a clarification and simplification of the previous protocol. The SEP is a flexible tool for evaluating the quality and societal relevance of scientific research.
It also assesses the viability of research units. Under the protocol, research groups within public research institutions are evaluated every six years by an independent, external committee. The evaluation is based on the research unit’s own objectives and strategies, and is conducted through a self-assessment and a site visit.
The evaluation criteria and procedures are outlined in the Strategy Evaluation Protocol. KNAW, NWO and UNL have revised the protocol to better align with the daily practice of research units. No quantitative assessments are given to research units; the focus is on a formative and development-oriented evaluation.
The SEP will apply to evaluations in the period 2027-2033. Research units evaluated by the external committee in 2027 may choose to do so based on either the new or the previous SEP (2021-2027). More information, including both the old and new evaluation protocols, is available for download on the Universities of the Netherlands website.
SEP 2027-2033 Working Conference
On 22 April, the SEP 2027-2033 Working Conference will take place in Utrecht. Those interested can register via the UNL website. Further details about the conference are also available there.