How do decision-makers in academic promotion perceive the novel scientometric evaluation in Egypt?

Abstract Research evaluation (RE) has experienced a major global transformation prompted by the emergence and increasing usage of digital citation platforms such as the Web of Science and Scopus, opening up avenues for scientometric evaluation (SE). This relatively novel evaluation method represents an essential pillar for the scientific committees for promotion in Egypt. Following previous recommendations to scrutinize RE systems in their sociocultural contexts, this study attempted to understand the SE perceptions held by these committees’ decision-makers. The study questionnaire was designed to incorporate all factors influencing SE perception and the characteristics of the chairpersons and their committees. Approximately 94% of respondents expressed positive SE perception, suggesting this evaluation’s success and continued use. The significant differences between responses explored were attributed to the international scientific performance of the chairpersons and most of the committees’ characteristics, including specialization and publication pattern and language. Despite the positive trend, some results indicated a degree of resistance to the new evaluation method, particularly in the social sciences, including the arts and humanities. The findings should interest evaluators and policy analysts in the Egyptian higher education and scientific research sector and other countries striving to internationalize this sector and improve the climate of research integrity. Comparable investigations can also utilize the reviewed and validated study instrument.