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Measure Your Research Impact: Introduction

Learn how to measure the impact of your research.

Created by Health Science Librarians

Library Data Services

Library Data Services caters to researchers interested in working with data, mapping, texts, visualization, and technology. Many of these services are available online. Davis Library Data Services, located on the second floor of Davis Library, offers:

  • A computing lab with specialized software for GIS and data visualization & analysis.
  • Walk-in assistance provided by knowledgeable student consultants during set hours
  • Consultations with specialists for more in-depth inquiries (by appointment).
  • Spaces for collaboration and presentation, complete with white boards and external displays.
  • Technology short courses and programs that promote digital scholarship.

What is Research Impact?

Research impact is the demonstrable contribution that excellent research makes to academia, society and the economy:

  • Academic impact : Contribution to academic advances, across and within disciplines, in understanding, methods, theory and application
  • Societal impact: Benefit to individuals, organizations and nations by enhancing quality of life, health and creative output, and increasing the effectiveness of public services and policy
  • Economic impact: Attracting investment, wealth creation, enhanced national and global competitiveness

The above statements were adapted from UK Research and Innovation.

There are several reasons to measure your research impact:

  • Application for promotion or tenure
  • Quantify return on research investment for grant renewals and progress reports
  • Future funding requests
  • Identify who is using your work and confirm that it is appropriately credited
  • Identify collaborators within or outside of your discipline

Related Guides

Meet Your Librarian

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Barrie Hayes, MSLS
Contact:
(919) 962-0264
Health Sciences Library
335 S. Columbia Street
Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7585
(Google Maps for directions)

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