The best way to analyze the quality of research is by looking at the research methodology, experimental design and how well the research question is addressed.
Moreover, the quality research publication in reputed journals is also another hallmark of quality research.
I am looking about any novelty/originality, its necessity, addressing any real-time issue or simply accumulating few more pages of data, approach/analysis of the chosen problem and its impact to general public.
Then publication in high impact journals / citation of articles, external funding generated and patents
Finally, (opportunity for )transforming research work from lab-bench to high street shops to public