The Ronin Institute is dedicated to the core values of openness, rigor, and integrity in scholarship, extending this commitment to how we evaluate and value the work of our scholars. We firmly align our institutional policies and practices with the principles set forth by the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA) and the Coalition for Advancing Research Assessment (COARA). This commitment signifies a move away from simplistic, metrics-based evaluation and toward a holistic assessment of research quality and impact.

Adherence to DORA Principles

As signatories in principle to DORA, we reject the use of journal-based metrics, such as the Journal Impact Factor (JIF), as a surrogate measure of the quality of individual research articles or for evaluating a scholar's contributions. Instead, the Ronin Institute emphasizes the intrinsic scientific merit of the research itself and the importance of diverse research outputs. We prioritize content over container, evaluating the rigor, methodology, and direct societal or intellectual contribution of each work. Our internal review processes focus on evidence of transparency, reproducibility, and ethical conduct, ensuring that all forms of scholarly contribution—including data sets, software, policy briefs, and public engagement—are fairly and substantively recognized.

Alignment with COARA's Vision

Our vision for research assessment aligns directly with the framework proposed by COARA, which champions a systemic and cultural change in evaluation. We recognize that the independent scholar's output often transcends traditional academic boundaries. Consequently, we advocate for qualitative, evidence-based assessment that considers the full range of a scholar's activities. This includes valuing contributions to open science, mentorship, and meaningful community engagement. By embracing COARA's principles, the Ronin Institute fosters an environment where scholars are empowered to pursue innovative, high-risk, and interdisciplinary research without the pressure to publish solely in high-JIF venues, thereby solidifying our dedication to intellectual freedom and scholarly diversity.