Thematic evaluation is a form of research and development (R&D) evaluation established under §18 of the Organisation of Research and Development Act. Its purpose is to assess the level and organisational aspects of research and development in order to support the design and implementation of research policy measures and to provide feedback to research institutions, universities and universities of applied sciences.

The detailed procedure for conducting thematic evaluations is established by a directive of the Minister of Education and Research.

Thematic evaluations may be requested by research and development institutions, universities and universities of applied sciences that hold a valid positive evaluation decision. Institutions may apply in order to obtain an assessment of the level of their R&D activities in a specific field or of particular organisational aspects of their R&D activities. Ministries may also request thematic evaluations where additional analytical input is required for the development or review of research policy.

The costs of thematic evaluations are covered from the budget of the ministry responsible for the respective field of research if the evaluation is deemed significant for research policy. If a thematic evaluation is conducted solely at the request of a specific legal entity or institution, the costs are covered by the applicant.