Open Science News

Join for ORCID in the Wild: Showcasing NASA’s Transform to Open Science (TOPS) Initiative
Join for ORCID in the Wild: Showcasing NASA’s Transform to Open Science (TOPS) Initiative 851 794 Open and Universal Science (OPUS) Project

Date & Time:
November 6, 2024, at 18:00

Event Overview:
The ORCID in the Wild webinar series continues with an exciting session spotlighting the NASA Transform to Open Science (TOPS) initiative and its integration with ORCID. This session will dive into how NASA uses ORCID to authenticate users, connect ORCID iDs, and integrate data into researcher records. Join us to see how ORCID-powered workflows are enhancing research transparency and streamlining processes for NASA’s open science objectives.

ORCID in the Wild celebrates how ORCID members worldwide are innovating scholarly practices through their integrations. Just as seeds take root in diverse environments, ORCID is fostering collaboration across the global research community.


Featured Speakers:

George Churchwell
Learning System Lead for Open Science 101, Director of Generative AI Solutions at MT Tam Innovations

George is the driving force behind the technical operations of NASA’s Open Science 101 initiative. As Director of Generative AI Solutions at MT Tam Innovations, he leads AI strategy and implementation, specializing in custom open-source AI solutions. At NASA, George oversees the integration of Open edX, Pearson Credly Badging, and ORCID, ensuring a streamlined and secure learning experience for open science. His extensive experience spans educational technology, where he has previously scaled companies like Tech 2000 Inc. and the American Research Group.

Glib Glugovskiy
Development Team Lead, Raccoon Gang

Glib serves as a technical lead at Raccoon Gang, an e-learning company, where he spearheads the architecture for the TOPS – Open Science 101 MOOC. His role includes implementing ORCID ID SSO, Credly badging, and UI/UX enhancements on the Open edX platform. As a core contributor to Open edX, Glib has led initiatives in verifiable credentials, mobile app development, and cost-saving platform improvements, including the shift from legacy MongoDB code.

Katherine Blanchette
Department Head for Partnerships, Outreach, and STEM Support; Deputy Project Manager for TOPS OS101, KBR Inc., NASA Ames Research Center

Katherine plays a pivotal role at KBR, supporting NASA Ames Research Center as the Deputy Project Manager for the TOPS Open Science 101 curriculum. She has led the development and implementation of the TOPS curriculum and manages a team of subject matter experts dedicated to open science education. Previously, Katherine was a STEM Engagement Specialist for NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement, focusing on the Minority University Research and Education Project (MUREP).


Don’t miss this opportunity to explore how ORCID and NASA’s TOPS initiative are transforming open science. Register now for insights into how these pioneering integrations are enhancing research and fostering transparency.

PKP Hosts Webinar on Publication Facts Label for OJS Users
PKP Hosts Webinar on Publication Facts Label for OJS Users 1024 576 Open and Universal Science (OPUS) Project

On November 21, 2024, the Public Knowledge Project (PKP) invites Open Journal Systems (OJS) users to a free webinar focused on the Publication Facts Label (PFL), an innovative tool designed to enhance transparency and integrity in scholarly publishing. Journal managers using OJS, particularly those on version 3.3 or higher, are encouraged to join the webinar to explore how the PFL can elevate their journals by displaying key publishing information for each article on the article landing page.

About the Publication Facts Label (PFL): Developed through PKP’s Journal Integrity Initiative (JII) at Simon Fraser University in collaboration with Stanford University, the PFL provides a structured display of essential journal and article data, such as peer review details, acceptance rates, time to publication, and editorial board information. It offers an all-in-one transparency tool, easily installed as a plugin, that automatically populates the label with data directly from the OJS platform.

Event Details: Hosted by PKP Founder Dr. John Willinsky, the webinar will delve into the PFL’s role in supporting journal integrity and guide participants on how to join the pilot program. The session will last one hour, from 9:00 – 10:00 AM Pacific Time, and will be held on Zoom.

  • Date and Time: November 21, 2024, 9 – 10 AM PT
  • Location: Online (Zoom)
  • Registration: Free via Eventbrite or by emailing commpkp@sfu.ca (subject: “PFL Nov 21 Zoom link”)

This event provides a unique opportunity for journal managers to enhance the credibility of their publications by leveraging the PFL as part of the broader Journal Integrity Initiative.

Upcoming Event: Inspiring ERA Exchange on Sustainable and Attractive Research Careers
Upcoming Event: Inspiring ERA Exchange on Sustainable and Attractive Research Careers 686 364 Open and Universal Science (OPUS) Project

Date: 13 November 2024
Time: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm (CET)
Location: Online via MS Teams

Join the Inspiring ERA Exchange event for a comprehensive look at the policies and tools designed to make research careers more sustainable and appealing within the EU. This online event, part of the ERA Action 4 initiative, offers an exploration of new EU policies, practical tools, and success stories aimed at improving the research career landscape.

Agenda Highlights:

  • Introduction: A brief overview of the Inspiring ERA Project led by Maciej Woszczyk from the National Centre for Research and Development.
  • Welcome Remarks: By Manuel Aleixo, Head of ERA at the European Commission’s DG R&I.
  • ERA Policy Agenda 2022-24: Dario Capezzuto from the European Commission discusses new Council recommendations on research careers.
  • European Framework for Research Careers: Luísa Henriques presents the implementation challenges ahead.
  • Insight into ERA Talent Platform: Updates on EURAXESS and RESAVER shared by Policy Officer Slaven Misljencevic.
  • ResearchComp Overview and Usage: An introduction by Dario Capezzuto, followed by a practical example from Charles University representatives.
  • Research and Innovation Careers Observatory (ReICO): Insights from Claudia Sarrico of the OECD.
  • HR Excellence in Research Award: Implementation and experience sharing from university and industry perspectives.

This event is open to all interested in supporting sustainable research careers, with a particular focus on institutional leaders, HR professionals, and researchers. Attendees will gain insights into EU policies, new career-support tools, and examples of HR excellence in practice.

Registration: Participation is free but registration is required.

Explore the Future of Open Access: DIAMAS, CRAFT-OA, and PALOMERA
Explore the Future of Open Access: DIAMAS, CRAFT-OA, and PALOMERA 598 714 Open and Universal Science (OPUS) Project

Join on Tuesday, November 19th, for an insightful session on the transformative European Diamond Open Access projects: DIAMAS, CRAFT-OA, and PALOMERA. These initiatives aim to reshape scholarly communication through innovative, community-driven approaches to open-access publishing.

This free event offers a unique opportunity to learn about the latest advancements in equitable access to research. Booking is essential, so reserve your spot today to engage in a discussion on the future of open-access publishing in Europe.

Register here!

Creating Actionable Policy Recommendations and Guidelines for Diamond Open Access: DIAMAS Project Online Event
Creating Actionable Policy Recommendations and Guidelines for Diamond Open Access: DIAMAS Project Online Event 1024 371 Open and Universal Science (OPUS) Project

Date: 18 November 2024
Time: 13:00-15:00 CET
Location: Zoom
Registration Link: Register Here
Registration Deadline: 14 November 2024
Contact: Federica Garbuglia (federica.garbuglia@eua.eu)

As the academic world increasingly shifts toward open science, there’s a rising emphasis on community-led, equitable models like Diamond Open Access (Diamond OA). Distinct from traditional models, Diamond OA ensures scholarly research is openly accessible without imposing fees on authors or readers, emphasizing community ownership of content and fostering a sustainable, inclusive ecosystem for knowledge sharing.

On 18 November 2024, DIAMAS will host an online event titled Creating Actionable Policy Recommendations and Guidelines for Diamond OA to present and discuss proposed recommendations developed for leaders in the academic and research sectors. The event, held from 13:00 to 15:00 CET on Zoom, aims to stimulate a conversation on the practical implementation of these recommendations, inviting feedback on challenges and opportunities for Diamond OA frameworks.

This two-hour event will open with a presentation of DIAMAS’s draft policy guidelines, tailored to support Diamond OA journals and platforms on institutional, national, and European scales. This will be followed by an interactive session for participants to provide feedback and engage in discussion. The goal is to assess the draft recommendations’ potential as a foundational framework for advancing Diamond OA policies across Europe.

Who Should Attend?

The event is designed for:

  • Institutional leaders and Diamond OA practitioners within universities, research-performing organizations (RPOs), and learned societies.
  • European funders, sponsors, and donors who support Diamond OA initiatives.
  • National and European policymakers involved in shaping scholarly communication.

Registration and Participation

Due to the interactive nature of the event, spaces are limited. Selection will be based on ensuring diverse representation across geographic regions, institutional backgrounds, and professional experience. Interested participants are encouraged to register by 14 November 2024.

For further details or queries, please contact Federica Garbuglia at federica.garbuglia@eua.eu. Join the conversation and be part of building a sustainable, community-driven future for open-access research in Europe.

eLife Ambassadors Programme Opens Applications for 2025/26 Cohort
eLife Ambassadors Programme Opens Applications for 2025/26 Cohort 1024 555 Open and Universal Science (OPUS) Project

The eLife Ambassadors Programme is now accepting applications for its next cohort, offering an 18-month training opportunity aimed at empowering life and medical science researchers worldwide with skills in open science, ethical leadership, and community engagement. Established by the Early-Career Advisory Group (ECAG), the programme provides researchers with foundational knowledge in open science principles and supports them in fostering these practices within their communities.

With demand rising, this year’s programme will welcome 160 participants globally, with a focus on applicants from underrepresented regions in academic publishing. Throughout the programme, ambassadors will engage in monthly workshops and meetups, benefiting from expert-led sessions on topics ranging from leadership and science communication to mental health and collaboration. Participants will have access to eLife’s resources and networking opportunities, allowing them to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and gain insights into various perspectives.

Applicants must be practising scientists, including medical and PhD students, from any country or territory. The application window runs from October 10 to November 4, 2024, and requires candidates to provide a 200-word statement about their vision for open science, particularly highlighting any relevant initiatives they have undertaken. The selection process will involve a review by eLife staff and experienced assessors, with a focus on diversity in the final cohort. Those not selected are invited to join the Open Science Champions Network to benefit from ongoing eLife training and events.

Participants are expected to engage regularly in programme activities and collaborate on local and international projects promoting open science. While the programme is free, eLife may provide limited financial support for local activities, though this depends on regional legal constraints. For more information on programme terms, applicants can visit the eLife website or email community@elifesciences.org.

Announcing the Launch of the REINFORCING Platform for Open and Responsible Research and Innovation (ORRI)
Announcing the Launch of the REINFORCING Platform for Open and Responsible Research and Innovation (ORRI) 1024 259 Open and Universal Science (OPUS) Project

We are excited to introduce the REINFORCING Platform—a dedicated hub to support European institutions and territories in advancing Open and Responsible Research and Innovation (ORRI). Created as part of the REINFORCING project, this platform serves as a centralized resource, designed to assist both newcomers and seasoned organizations in their ORRI journey.

Key Services Offered by the ORRI Platform

  1. Funding Opportunities
    Through seven open calls, REINFORCING will provide financial support for organizations across Europe. This funding is available for institutions new to ORRI, as well as experienced entities aiming to deepen their commitment to open, responsible research practices.
  2. Community and Collaboration
    The platform connects a dynamic community of organizations and facilitators who have successfully integrated ORRI principles. Members are encouraged to share insights, best practices, and valuable experiences to foster a collaborative learning environment. You can also contribute to our virtual ORRI Map, helping institutions connect with local experts for tailored support.
  3. Comprehensive Resources
    Access a curated collection of resources, best practices, and case studies to inspire and guide your institution’s ORRI efforts. Whether you’re looking for strategic approaches or tactical tools, the platform’s resources are designed to facilitate meaningful ORRI implementation.
  4. Training and Workshops
    Participate in expert-led training sessions that address specific ORRI needs. Our training sessions offer practical, actionable insights, ensuring that your team gains the skills and knowledge required to navigate ORRI challenges effectively.
  5. Customized Pathways for ORRI Success
    For organizations facing unique ORRI challenges, our platform provides tailored pathways, offering step-by-step solutions to improve your organization’s ORRI processes and ensure impactful results.

Begin Your ORRI Journey Today

The REINFORCING ORRI platform invites you to explore its resources and join a vibrant community committed to connecting science, innovation, and society. Together, let’s shape a future where research and innovation are more open and responsible.

About REINFORCING

Funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe R&I Framework Programme, REINFORCING is a 50-month initiative aimed at embedding ORRI practices across Europe. By offering support, resources, and cascading grants, REINFORCING empowers institutions and territories to either initiate or enhance their ORRI efforts, advancing the integration of science and society.

Start your ORRI journey with REINFORCING’s Platform today and join us in fostering a research environment that aligns with the principles of openness, responsibility, and collaboration.

Conference to Address Gender Bias in Research Assessment: A Move from ‘Responsible’ to ‘Responsive’
Conference to Address Gender Bias in Research Assessment: A Move from ‘Responsible’ to ‘Responsive’ 724 1024 Open and Universal Science (OPUS) Project

On Monday, 28th October at 12:00 CET, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid will host a conference addressing the often-overlooked issue of gender bias in research assessment. The event, titled “Gender and Research Assessment: Proposing a Move from ‘Responsible’ to ‘Responsive'”, is part of the Twin4MERIT project and aims to challenge the entrenched gender biases that persist within academic structures, research publications, and funding opportunities.

Research has shown that metrics commonly used to assess research impact, such as journal citations and impact factors, systematically disadvantage female researchers. These biases influence career trajectories, including hiring, promotions, and funding, yet are often justified under the guise of promoting research ‘excellence’. This conference will highlight how these structures maintain a neoliberal and patriarchal academic order, leaving gender inequalities unaddressed.

The event proposes a conceptual shift, inspired by Mair (2009), from so-called ‘responsible’ initiatives such as CoARA, DORA, and the Leiden Manifesto, which, while progressive, often fail to tackle gender bias effectively. The move to ‘responsive’ initiatives could expose these biases and prevent superficial gestures of gender equality, sometimes referred to as ‘genderwashing’.

By exploring this responsive approach, the conference aims to uncover the hidden potential for real change within academic research assessment practices.

Event Details:

  • Date: Monday, 28th October
  • Time: 12:00 CET
  • Location: Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (with online streaming available)
  • Streaming LinkWatch live on YouTube

For more information, please visit Gender and Research Assessment Conference.

Open Access Week 2024: Global Events Celebrating Open Knowledge
Open Access Week 2024: Global Events Celebrating Open Knowledge 1024 576 Open and Universal Science (OPUS) Project

Open Access Week 2024, taking place from October 21-27, is a global celebration dedicated to promoting free and open access to academic research. The theme this year, “Community Over Commercialization,” emphasizes the importance of open, collaborative models in scholarly publishing, steering away from for-profit structures. Around the world, institutions, researchers, and open access advocates are hosting events to raise awareness and encourage discussions about the future of accessible knowledge.

Here are some notable events happening worldwide:

  1. Webinars and Panels: Organizations such as SPARC (the Scholarly Publishing and Academic Resources Coalition) are hosting webinars exploring the role of open access in transforming research, with themes such as Diamond Open Access models and strategies for community-driven publishing.
  2. Workshops and Trainings: Universities and research institutions are holding workshops to teach researchers how to navigate open access platforms, make their work publicly available, and embrace open data sharing.
  3. Collaborative Projects: In line with the theme, many are launching new collaborative projects that bring together researchers, librarians, and publishers to build sustainable open access models.
  4. Regional Conferences: In Europe, events such as the DIAMAS webinar on “Strength Through Collaboration in Diamond OA Publishing” and other sessions emphasize collective efforts to reshape academic publishing.

These events serve as a platform for discussion and innovation, with a shared goal of making knowledge accessible to everyone, breaking down barriers to research, and fostering global collaboration.

If you’re interested in learning more or participating, Open Access Week 2024 offers a wide variety of opportunities to engage with the open knowledge movement.

Webinar on Diamond Open Access Collaboration: Join for Open Access Week 2024
Webinar on Diamond Open Access Collaboration: Join for Open Access Week 2024 1024 431 Open and Universal Science (OPUS) Project

In celebration of Open Access Week 2024, the DIAMAS project is hosting a webinar titled “Strength Through Collaboration in Diamond OA Publishing” on 23 October 2024, from 15:00-16:00 CET. This online event will explore successful examples of collaboration in Diamond Open Access (OA) publishing, particularly in Europe, and offer attendees the opportunity to engage in interactive discussions and share their views.

The DIAMAS project invites anyone involved in or interested in the Diamond OA field to participate. Whether you’re a researcher, publisher, or policymaker, this is an excellent chance to gain insights and contribute to the conversation on building collaborative models in OA publishing.

How to Participate

  • Date and Time: 23 October 2024, 15:00-16:00 CET / 13:00-14:00 UTC
  • Registration: Click here to register
  • Share your experiences: If you are unable to attend but would like to contribute, share your thoughts on collaboration in Diamond OA publishing via this anonymous web form.

For more information, contact Mikael Laakso (mikael.laakso@tsv.fi) or Janne Pölönen (janne.polonen@tsv.fi).

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