Publish or Perish: How Are Research and Reputation Related?

A study of twenty-seven fields in 350 highly ranked universities examines the relationship between reputation and rank. We find that many metrics associated with research prowess significantly correlate to university reputation. However, the next logical step– looking at the relationship that links different academic fields with the reputation of the university–did not always offer the expected results. The phrase “publish or perish” clearly has very different meanings in different fields.

Research Highlights► The relation between reputation and research are considered for 350 universities. ► Based on 27 fields of study there is a relation between reputation and rank. ► Substantial differences between research and reputation depend on the field. ► There is a need for a greater understanding between field differences. ► Metrics relating research and performance – quality and quantity are considered.