Good Practices for Institutional Organization of Research Institutes: Excellence in Research and Positive Impact on Society
Zlatan Ajanović, Hamza Merzić, Suad Krilasević, Eldar Kurtić, Bakir Kudić, Rialda Spahić, Emina Aličković, Aida Branković, Kenan Šehić, Mirsad Ćosović, Admir Greljo, Sead Delalić, Adnan Mehonić
TL;DR
This paper analyzes rapid global progress in artificial intelligence and BiH-specific developments over the past two years, focusing on education, institutional organization, digital readiness, ethics, and governance. It synthesizes lessons from exemplary global institutes (Bell Labs, DeepMind, ISTA, COMET centers) to propose a pragmatic BiH blueprint: establish public interdisciplinary AI institutes, implement continuous external evaluation, enable industry-based doctoral programs, reform funding and procurement, and craft a participatory national AI strategy. The work emphasizes aligning BiH with EU regulatory frameworks (EU AI Act) and advanced regional exemplars to accelerate research quality, collaboration, and societal impact. Its significance lies in providing concrete, multi-stakeholder recommendations to build a sustainable, ethically responsible, and globally competitive AI ecosystem in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The proposed approach aims to translate research excellence into practical benefits across public services, industry, and society at large.
Abstract
In this paper, we analyze examples of research institutes that stand out in scientific excellence and social impact. We define key practices for evaluating research results, economic conditions, and the selection of specific research topics. Special focus is placed on small countries and the field of artificial intelligence. The aim is to identify components that enable institutes to achieve a high level of innovation, self-sustainability, and social benefits.