UNIVERSAL MATRIX FOR ASSESSMENT OF RESEARCH COMPETENCIES OF SCIENTISTS IN THE CONTEXT OF OPEN SCIENCE "U-MARC4OS"

UNIVERSAL MATRIX FOR ASSESSMENT OF RESEARCH COMPETENCIES OF SCIENTISTS IN THE CONTEXT OF OPEN SCIENCE "U-MARC4OS" ABSTRACT Approaches to assessing the research activities are undergoing significant changes in the context of open science development, which requires socio-cultural and technological transformations in how research is designed, conducted, and evaluated. This article presents the results of theoretical and methodological substantiation and development of a universal matrix for assessing the research competencies of scientists in the context of open science (U-MARC4OS)," which integrates 143 generalised competency indicators classified into 21 categories according to functional characteristics. The cyclical approach underlying the universal matrix ensured further systematisation of the competency categories defined by the authors according to 5 key stages of the research activity life cycle in the context of open science (conceptualisation and planning, resource provision, implementation and analysis, dissemination and communication, implementation and impact). The rating scale incorporated in the universal matrix distinguishes five levels of researcher competency development: absent (0 points) –the competency is not formed or not applicable; basic (1 point) – the ability to conduct research activities under supervision; intermediate (2 points) – the ability to perform research tasks and make decisions independently; advanced (3 points) – the ability to independently design and implement research projects and provide leadership to others; expert (4 points) – the ability to exercise strategic leadership and drive systemic innovation. The universal matrix "U-MARC4OS" addresses the problem of fragmented assessment in individual methodologies, takes into account the cyclical nature and multidimensionality of research activities, and provides the possibility of differentiated assessment and self-assessment of scientists' research competencies at different stages of their research careers, considering the stages of research activity, specifics, and requirements of a particular field and institution. The implementation of the universal matrix in systems for assessing the research competencies of scientists in higher education institutions and scientific and research-funding institutions will contribute to maximizing the social value of scientific research in the context of open science and integration into European and international research areas.