EPS statement: On the use of bibliometric indices during assessment

V - 11 June 2012

The European Physical Society in its role to promote physics and physicists is concerned about the increasing use of bibliometric indices in evaluation procedures of individuals, groups and their scientific projects.

In recent years, various studies on the potential adverse consequences of a purely numerical assessment on the quality of funded scientific research have been conducted in Europe. Different institutions have published best practices regarding the review process of scientists and projects.

In this ongoing debate, the European Physical Society insists on the importance of peer review for all evaluation procedures. It takes position against a purely numerical assessment. Only the cautious application of bibliometric indices during a peer-review procedure can guarantee non-biased results. "Rigorous but broader assessment procedures - says EPS President Luisa Cifarelli -must take into account the research environment and particularities of the domain in the evaluation of the scientific content.”

View complete assessment (pdf file)