Transition in Iran’s Research System: An Analysis Using the Multi-Level Perspective

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 - PhD Candidate in Technology Management, Department of Management and Accounting, Allameh Tabataba’i University, Tehran, Iran.

2 Faculty Member, Department of Management and Accounting, Allameh Tabataba’I University, Tehran, Iran

3 Faculty Member, Department of Psychology and Education, Allameh Tabataba’I University, Tehran, Iran.

10.22034/jstp.2026.12070.1939

Abstract

The research system, as a social system, fulfills its mission by responding to the society’s knowledge-based needs through the production of knowledge, the training of human resources, and the scientific support of other sectors. In addition to its internal fluctuations and challenges, this system is influenced by a variety of macro-level forces that, while exerting pressures for change or for maintaining the status quo, may also create opportunities for the emergence of innovative approaches. These forces are shaped and mediated through the actions and interactions of key actors—such as policy-making institutions, universities, and research organizations—that collectively influence the direction and pace of transformation. However, a systemic and multi-level perspective on these dynamics has rarely been adopted in Iran. Without a proper understanding of these forces and sufficient adaptability to external transformations, the research system will become increasingly incapable of addressing future needs. Drawing on the Multi-Level Perspective (MLP) framework, this study identifies and analyzes the forces shaping Iran’s research system across three levels: landscape, regime, and niche. Data were collected through document analysis, literature review, expert interviews, and participation in specialized policy meetings, and were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings provide a multi-level picture of the pressures, lock-ins, and emerging innovations that can serve as a basis for transformative policy-making in Iran’s research system. The overall analysis suggests that transition in this system depends on the gradual strengthening of niches, the enhancement of societal pressure, and the stepwise reform and unlocking of regime rules — a gradual pathway that may lead to greater efficiency and responsiveness of the research system.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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