At RU, internationally recognized research is emphasized and the University has set a clear and progressive research strategy. In the last couple of years, many important steps have been taken to enhance research and the academic strength within RU. The overall research activity is gradually rising as is the number of publications in peer-reviewed outlets. The University has achieved a recognized academic status internationally and today, RU stands first among equals in Iceland considering research in its main academic fields. RU has managed to develop a productive and appealing research environment for Icelandic and foreign scientists. These remarkable achievements can be explained by many factors in the University´s working conditions and environment. Here are just few factors worth mentioning.

1.    According to the RU Research Strategy, researchers of Reykjavik University must be active participants in the international research community, and research at the University must meet the demanding requirements of the international research community. An important indicator of research success is the publishing of results in established peer-reviewed outlets and all researchers of Reykjavik University should strive to achieve international recognition for their work. The quality of the research work is best ensured via peer-review in academic forums.

2.    An assessment of research activities at the RU Schools is conducted annually by a panel of international specialists (http://en.ru.is/research/about/ru-quality-assurance-system-in-research/). The panel members are asked to base their evaluation and hence their rating primarily on the quantity/quality of research output in peer-reviewed outlets. The Panel is asked to notice that all comparison to the international research community in each field and impact is also witnessed by citations, derived work, advising of doctoral students/post-docs, grants and status (roles as editor, PC member/organizer of conferences, examiner of Ph.D. thesis, etc.). The result of the annual assessment is the basis for allocation of research funds from the Ministry of Education and Culture between the Schools.

3.    Reykjavik University has a very effective Research Council, which is composed of one representative from each School, in addition to a Chairman appointed by the Provost of the University in consultation with the Rector and Deans. The Research Council formulates the University's research strategy and provides advice to the Rector, Provost and Deans for implementing the strategy. Further, the Council provides the Rector and Provost with advice in research matters which do not pertain to individual Schools.