Academy of Medical Sciences of I.R. Iran Archives of Iranian Medicine 1029-2977 20 11 2017 11 01 How to Assess Quality of Research in Iran, From Input to Impact? Introduction of Peer-Based Research Evaluation Model in Iran 680 685 EN Asghar Ebadifar Monir Baradaran Eftekhari Parviz Owlia Elham Habibi Elham Ghalenoee Mohammad Reza Bagheri Katayoun Falahat Masoumeh Eltemasi Zahra Sobhani Shahin Akhondzadeh Journal Article Background: Research evaluation is a systematic and objective process to measure relevance, efficiency and effectiveness of research activities, and peer review is one of the most important tools for assessing quality of research. The aim of this study was introducing research evaluation indicators based on peer reviewing. Methods: This study was implemented in 4 stages. A list of objective-oriented evaluation indicators were designed in 4 axes, including; governance and leadership, structure, knowledge production and research impact. Results: The top 10% medical sciences research centers (RCs) were evaluated based on peer review. Adequate equipment and laboratory instruments, high quality research publication and national or international cooperation were the main strengths in medical sciences RCs and the most important weaknesses included failure to adhere to strategic plans, parallel actions in similar fields, problems in manpower recruitment, knowledge translation & exchange (KTE) in service providers and policy makers’ levels. Conclusion: Peer review evaluation can improve the quality of research.