Multi-actor policy dynamics in research evaluation: The introduction of international standards of excellence

We analyse the dynamics between national science policymakers and international research evaluation experts in the context of research assessment in Lithuania. We focus on the pressure to comply with international standards of excellence brought in by foreign experts and the attempt of national policymakers to translate the recommendations of these experts to the Lithuanian context. Analysis of national research assessment policies and interviews with politicians and civil servants reveal why Lithuanian policymakers predominantly opted for quantitative measures to assess institutions and researchers.