Document Type : Original research
Authors
1
Assistant Professor, Research Institute for Science, Technology and Industry Policy, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
2
Associate Professor, Research Institute for Science, Technology and Industry Policy, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
3
Postdoctoral researcher at Sharif University of Technology
4
PhD Student, Educational Research, Werklund School of Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
Abstract
Over recent decades, research funding has become a cornerstone of scientific progress, innovation, and national competitiveness. In Iran, despite the relative growth of research expenditures, challenges such as budgetary fluctuations, heavy reliance on government resources, weak competitive allocation mechanisms, and limited evaluation of spending effectiveness have hindered the efficiency of the research system. This study, adopting a qualitative approach and informed by the experiences of selected countries, seeks to identify the key features of an effective research funding system in Iran. Drawing on experts’ perspectives, it examines funding mechanisms, policy orientations, and policy implications. The conceptual framework comprises nine core dimensions—policy-making, resource allocation mechanisms, allocation behavior, financing, accessibility, evaluation, support and incentives, regional considerations, and science and technology diplomacy—which were explored through semi-structured interviews with seven senior experts. Data were analyzed using the three-step content analysis model of Walcott (2008). The findings highlight the necessity of diversifying funding sources, implementing performance- and competition-based allocation, providing targeted support for less-recognized researchers, and localizing evaluation metrics as critical requirements for enhancing the efficiency of Iran’s research funding system. Furthermore, the development of intermediary institutions and improved financial transparency are proposed as key steps toward transforming policy-making and strengthening accountability within the national research landscape.
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