Rethinking Research Impact
By Ann Marie Hess, David H. Guston
In an era of uncertainty, scholars and universities must reflect on their purpose and build frameworks that make their goals achievable.
This Article From Issue
January-February 2026
Volume 114, Number 1
Page 16
Not so long ago, researchers considered publishing well—having a strong record of one’s work appearing in top journals—to be the gold standard for measuring impact. Citation counts were metrics of success, and academic contributions largely spoke to peer communities. A scholar’s identity was wrapped up in their body of work and in their reputation within those circles.
QUICK TAKE
- Research impact is no longer measured in prestige publications, but in successfully producing patents, licenses, partnerships, spin-offs, and technology transfer pipelines.
- Navigating these changes amid turbulent attitudes toward science requires first understanding what you seek to accomplish; the “why” will inform the “how.”
- Working with the communities we serve throughout the research process can rebuild trust, improve communication, and fulfill science’s promise as a public good.
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