The article analyzes the issue of evaluating scientific research. Evaluation should recognize both quantitative and qualitative contributions, taking into account the objectives, discipline and institutional context. There is no single perfect system of evaluation and respect for diversity is crucial. Capitalizing on international experience, primarily European, should be part of the evolution of the system in the Republic of Moldova. The aim should be to introduce new indicators (or adapt old ones) that help to better disclose quality and that are transparent and fit the purpose of the assessment, while maintaining a concrete system based on the principle of objectivity. All knowledgeable stakeholders should be involved in the transition to new research evaluation systems. The study included a review of relevant literature (studies, reports, public debates) and its synthesis led to the identification of the main problems in the evaluation of scientific research in Europe and the Republic of Moldova. Following the identification of the main shortcomings of the existing indicators in the evaluation of science, a composite index was developed to capture the different impacts of scientific research and experimental development. It is known, for example, that bibliometric evaluation has many shortcomings: it cannot capture the impact of research outside the academic community, in economics or in education; not all valuable publications are present in databases (e.g. monographs and many articles in languages other than English in the humanities). In this respect, the use of the Timmy index complies with all the requirements stipulated in European documents and we recommend it for use in the Republic of Moldova.