The external evaluation of Estonian research institutions is an important intermediate step in promoting research and development activities

Last week, from September 16-21, site visits were conducted as part of the regular evaluation of Estonian research institutions. These visits were preceded by a comprehensive self-assessment process, which lasted throughout the spring semester. A total of 25 research and development institutions were evaluated, including three institutions that had not previously received a positive evaluation. Tallinn University was assessed in three areas: social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences. This year’s evaluation focused on institutional growth, sustainability, and the societal impact of research. The last regular evaluation of research institutions took place in August 2017.

The evaluation committee visiting Tallinn University was welcomed by Vice-Rector for Research, Katrin Niglas, who presented an overview of the university’s strategic goals and accomplishments. Over the years, these achievements have helped position the university as a leading center in both the academic world and society at large. Doctoral students and senior researchers engaged in discussions with the evaluation committee, offering a comprehensive overview of the university’s research activities and their quality. In addition to reviewing scientific contributions, the committee also examined the support systems available for doctoral students and researchers, as well as the overall organization of research activities at the university. Notably, this year the evaluation committees also focused on the role of doctoral students in knowledge transfer, with particular interest in their current activities and future plans. Tallinn University currently has 10 doctoral students involved in knowledge transfer initiatives, and this number is expected to grow in the coming years.

Tallinn University has consistently achieved significant research outcomes, receiving a total of eight national research awards over the past six years—four in the humanities and four in the social sciences. Two of the university's distinguished researchers, Marek Tamm (2021) and Ellu Saar (2022), have been elected members of the Estonian Academy of Sciences. In addition, several faculty members have been recognized for their efforts in popularizing science, including Grete Arro and Katrin Tiidenberg (2022) and Mari Uusküla (2021). The university's research and development revenues have also shown steady growth, with both baseline and project-based domestic and international funding increasing. Research-based funding at Tallinn University exceeded €16 million in 2023 (compared to approximately €13.5 million in 2021). These recognitions and the steady increase in funding reflect the university’s vital contributions both locally and internationally, underscoring its capacity to lead innovative research projects with significant societal impact.

The purpose of the external evaluation is to support the development of Estonian research institutions and enhance their international competitiveness. The results will inform future research and development planning and help increase the scientific and societal impact of these institutions. The evaluation outcomes will be made public in early 2025.

We extend our sincere thanks to everyone involved in preparing the self-assessment reports, engaging in discussions with the committee, and helping to ensure the successful completion of Tallinn University’s external evaluation.