In the international evaluation, BIOR has been recognized as the highest-rated institution within its scientific domains. BIOR received the top assessment among research institutions in the fields of agriculture, forestry, and veterinary sciences, achieving an overall score of 4 (“very good”) on a five-point scale. International experts acknowledged BIOR’s research as highly significant for the national bioeconomy and public health.

BIOR’s societal impact was also rated excellently, receiving the maximum score of 5, confirming the institute’s leading position in research areas with substantial impact on food safety, public health, and environmental sustainability.

“The evaluation results confirm that BIOR is on the right strategic path in advancing its scientific activities and consistently achieving its long-term objectives. The international assessment particularly highlights the institute’s scientific support to policymakers, ensuring the development of high-quality, evidence- and science-based policies. The evaluation also underscores our growth potential to become a flagship One Health research center in the Baltic Sea region. We have modern infrastructure and outstanding, internationally recognized researchers who have already demonstrated their ability to effectively address crisis situations in veterinary medicine and public health through their scientific work. This evaluation is a testament to the focused and professional efforts of the entire BIOR team,” emphasized Prof. Aivars Bērziņš, Chair of the Scientific Council of BIOR.

International experts noted that BIOR has purposefully developed modern research infrastructure and maintains close cooperation with public administration and industry, as well as possessing strong potential to expand international collaboration in bioeconomy and One Health research.

BIOR’s role in interdisciplinary research was also highly commended, particularly its contribution to the development and implementation of a nationwide SARS-CoV-2 wastewater surveillance system in Latvia during the COVID-19 pandemic. This approach enabled early detection and monitoring of virus spread across the country.

The institute’s research environment and infrastructure were assessed as capable of providing an internationally competitive, high-level research setting that attracts the interest of foreign researchers and fosters collaborative opportunities.

International Evaluation of Scientific Institutions’ Activity

This international evaluation is conducted every six years to promote the development of science in Latvia, strengthen international competitiveness, and ensure more efficient use of public investment. The evaluation was carried out by Technopolis, involving independent international experts.

The assessment covered 39 scientific institutions and 62 research areas, analyzing self-assessment reports, bibliometric data, interviews, and on-site visits. Experts evaluated research quality, scientific, economic, and societal impact, infrastructure, and development potential. The results also serve as a foundation for planning science, technology, and innovation policy and strengthening national competitiveness.