Open Science News

While open science benefits the global research community, there are specific areas where it is most urgently needed to address pressing challenges. In this article, we will explore some key areas where open science can have a transformative impact.

1. Medical Research and Drug Development

One of the most critical areas where open science is needed is in medical research and drug development. The high cost of healthcare, limited access to essential medicines, and the need for rapid responses to emerging diseases make this field ripe for open collaboration. By openly sharing research data, methodologies, and clinical trial results, scientists and pharmaceutical companies can accelerate the development of life-saving treatments and make them accessible to a broader population.

2. Climate Science and Environmental Conservation

As our planet faces increasingly severe environmental challenges, open science plays a vital role in addressing these issues. Climate scientists need to openly share data and research findings to improve our understanding of climate change and develop effective mitigation strategies. In addition, open science can empower citizen scientists and activists to contribute to environmental conservation efforts by sharing data on biodiversity, deforestation, and pollution.

3. Education and Knowledge Dissemination

Open science is essential in education to ensure that knowledge is freely accessible to learners worldwide. Open educational resources (OERs) and open-access journals allow students and educators to access high-quality learning materials and research articles without prohibitive costs. This democratization of knowledge is particularly crucial in developing countries where access to educational resources is limited.

4. Crisis Response and Public Health

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of open science in responding to global health crises. Rapid data sharing among scientists from different countries led to the development of vaccines and treatments at an unprecedented pace. Open access to research on diseases, outbreaks, and public health strategies can help us better prepare for future pandemics and health emergencies.

5. Social Sciences and Policy Research

Open science is equally relevant in the social sciences and policy research. Openly sharing data and research findings can enhance transparency in policymaking, leading to more evidence-based decisions. Additionally, open access to social science research can foster public engagement and informed discussions on critical societal issues, such as inequality, poverty, and education.

6. Space Exploration and Astronomy

In the realm of space exploration and astronomy, open science can fuel discoveries and innovations. Collaborative projects like the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) radio telescope rely on open data sharing to unravel the mysteries of the universe. Open access to astronomical data and research findings encourages public interest in space science and inspires the next generation of scientists.

Keep in mind

Open science is a powerful force for positive change, with the potential to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. By fostering collaboration, transparency, and open access to knowledge, it can accelerate progress in critical areas such as medical research, environmental conservation, education, crisis response, social sciences, and space exploration. Embracing open science principles is not only a moral imperative but also a practical strategy for solving complex global problems. As we move forward, it is essential to recognize where open science is most needed and work together to make scientific knowledge a global public good.

Photo via Research Gate

Making your research open not only contributes to the advancement of knowledge but also promotes accountability and innovation. In this article, we will explore the various steps and strategies to make your research open and accessible to the global scientific community.

1. Choose Open Access Journals

One of the most straightforward ways to make your research open is to publish in open-access journals. These journals allow anyone with an internet connection to read your work without any paywalls or subscriptions. Open-access publishing ensures that your research is widely available and can be accessed by researchers, policymakers, and the general public. There are numerous reputable open-access journals across different fields, so find one that aligns with your research area.

2. Preprints

Consider posting preprints of your research papers on preprint servers before submitting them to journals. Preprints are early versions of research papers that are made publicly available before peer review. This allows for rapid dissemination of your findings and invites feedback from the scientific community. Popular preprint servers include arXiv, bioRxiv, and SSRN, among others.

3. Open Data and Code

Sharing your data and code is a crucial aspect of open science. Data and code sharing not only facilitate the reproducibility of your research but also enable others to build upon your work. To make your data open, consider depositing it in public repositories or data archives relevant to your field. Additionally, provide clear documentation and code repositories (e.g., GitHub) for your research code, making it accessible and understandable for others.

4. Open Licensing

When making your research open, it’s essential to choose the right licensing options. Open licenses, such as Creative Commons licenses, allow you to specify how others can use your work. These licenses can range from fully open (CC BY, allowing for commercial use and modifications) to more restrictive (CC BY-NC-ND, which permits only non-commercial use and no modifications). Select a license that aligns with your preferences for sharing and reusing your research.

5. Collaborate and Share

Collaboration is at the heart of open science. Engage with colleagues, both within and outside your field, to share ideas and resources. Collaborative research projects can lead to more diverse perspectives and innovative solutions. Additionally, consider sharing your research progress, data, and findings on platforms like ResearchGate or academic social networks like Academia.edu, fostering collaboration and feedback from the global research community.

6. Citizen Science and Public Engagement

Extend the reach of your research by involving the public in your scientific endeavors. Citizen science projects encourage the participation of non-experts in research activities. Engaging with the public not only enhances your research but also promotes science literacy and public understanding. Use platforms like Zooniverse or SciStarter to create and manage citizen science projects.

7. Advocacy for Open Science

Advocate for open science principles within your academic community and beyond. Join or support organizations and initiatives that promote openness, transparency, and accessibility in research. Encourage your peers and institutions to adopt open science practices and policies. By actively advocating for open science, you contribute to a culture of openness in research.

Sharing Open Science

Making your research open is not just a matter of publishing papers; it’s a commitment to the values of transparency, collaboration, and accessibility. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can contribute to the open science movement and help drive scientific progress. Remember that open science is a continuous journey, and your efforts to make your research open will have a lasting impact on the scientific community and society as a whole. Embrace the principles of openness and join the global effort to make knowledge truly accessible to all.

Photo via Flaticon

The European Union (EU) has been at the forefront of promoting these values and principles in the realm of scientific discovery. Through various initiatives, policies, and funding programs, the EU has fostered an environment where researchers, institutions, and the public can engage in a more open and inclusive scientific ecosystem. In this article, we will explore the core values and principles of open science that are encouraged in the EU.

1. Transparency and Open Access

One of the fundamental principles of open science is transparency. In the EU, this is exemplified through policies and mandates that require publicly funded research to be openly accessible. The EU strongly encourages researchers to publish their findings in open access journals or repositories, making scientific knowledge freely available to anyone with an internet connection. This move ensures that research is not locked behind paywalls, benefiting both the scientific community and the broader public.

2. Data Sharing and Management

The EU places a significant emphasis on responsible data sharing and management. Researchers are encouraged to share their research data and make it accessible to others. Initiatives like the European Open Science Cloud (EOSC) aim to create a trusted and accessible environment for storing and sharing research data across borders and disciplines. By fostering data sharing, the EU enhances scientific collaboration and accelerates the pace of discovery.

3. Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Research

Open science encourages collaboration not only among researchers but also across different scientific disciplines. The EU promotes interdisciplinary research by providing funding opportunities for projects that transcend traditional boundaries. Interdisciplinary research fosters innovation and the development of holistic solutions to complex societal challenges, such as climate change, healthcare, and technology.

4. Community Engagement and Citizen Science

The EU recognizes the importance of involving the public in scientific research. Citizen science projects, where volunteers from the public actively participate in scientific investigations, are on the rise. These initiatives not only advance scientific knowledge but also promote science literacy and engagement among citizens. The EU encourages researchers and institutions to involve the public in research processes and decision-making, making science more inclusive and accessible.

5. Research Integrity and Ethics

Maintaining the highest ethical standards is paramount in open science. The EU promotes research integrity by emphasizing ethical conduct, responsible research practices, and adherence to strict ethical guidelines. This commitment to research ethics ensures the reliability and credibility of scientific findings, which is crucial for building trust in the scientific community.

6. Education and Training

To support the transition to open science practices, the EU invests in education and training programs. Researchers are provided with resources and training to improve their data management, open access publishing, and collaborative skills. By equipping researchers with the necessary tools and knowledge, the EU ensures that open science becomes an integral part of scientific culture.

7. Inclusivity and Diversity

Open science in the EU is characterized by its inclusivity and commitment to diversity. Efforts are made to involve researchers from various backgrounds, career stages, and geographic locations. By promoting diversity, the EU enriches the scientific landscape and ensures that open science benefits all, regardless of their background or affiliation.

For the End

The European Union’s dedication to the values and principles of open science has transformed the way research is conducted and shared across the continent. Through transparency, collaboration, data sharing, and engagement, the EU has created a vibrant and inclusive scientific ecosystem that benefits both researchers and society at large. As open science continues to evolve, the EU’s commitment to these values remains at the forefront of scientific progress, driving innovation, and addressing global challenges.

Photo via UNESCO

In the digital age, data has become the cornerstone of modern society, driving innovation, decision-making, and progress across various industries. However, not all data is created equal. Two terms that are often used interchangeably but hold distinct meanings are “open data” and “available data”. This article aims to shed light on the key disparities between these concepts and their respective implications.

Defining Open Data

Open data refers to information that is made available to the public without any restrictions on access, usage, or distribution. It is characterized by the following key attributes:

1. Accessibility: Open data is freely available to anyone, without the need for special permissions or fees. It can be accessed online or through other means such as APIs (Application Programming Interfaces).
2. Format: Open data is typically provided in machine-readable formats, enabling easy integration into various applications and systems.
3. Licensing: Open data is accompanied by licenses that explicitly grant users the right to use, modify, and distribute the data for any purpose, including commercial use.
4. Metadata: Comprehensive metadata is often provided with open data to offer context, describe its source, and specify how it can be used.
5. Transparency and Accountability: Open data promotes transparency in government and other organizations by allowing the public to scrutinize information and hold entities accountable.

Unpacking Available Data

Available data is a broader term that encompasses any data that can be accessed or obtained, but it does not necessarily imply the same level of accessibility, licensing, or format as open data. Available data may have varying degrees of restrictions or limitations, including:

1. Access Restrictions: Some available data may require specific permissions, subscriptions, or payments for access. This can be common in proprietary databases or specialized research repositories.
2. Usage Limitations: Data that is labeled as available may come with specific terms of use, restricting how it can be employed. For instance, some datasets may be available for research purposes only.
3. Licensing Variability: Unlike open data, available data may come with a range of licensing agreements, some of which may impose more restrictions on usage and distribution.
4. Format Diversification: Available data can be presented in a wide array of formats, including PDFs, spreadsheets, images, and more. These formats may not always be readily compatible with all applications or systems.

Practical Implications

Understanding the distinction between open data and available data carries practical implications for various stakeholders:

Government and Public Institutions

Embracing open data practices can enhance transparency, accountability, and public trust. It empowers citizens to engage with government data, fostering innovation and enabling the development of valuable applications and services.

Researchers and Academics

Access to open data can accelerate research and innovation by providing a wealth of information for analysis and experimentation. Available data, while still valuable, may come with limitations that could hinder the progress of certain studies.

Businesses and Entrepreneurs

Open data can be a valuable resource for businesses, providing insights, market trends, and opportunities for innovation. Available data, especially proprietary or restricted datasets, may require additional investments in acquiring licenses or permissions.

Conclusion

While both open data and available data contribute to the wealth of information available in the digital landscape, the distinction lies in the level of accessibility, licensing, and format. Open data stands as a beacon of transparency and innovation, while available data encompasses a broader spectrum of accessibility. Understanding these differences is crucial for making informed decisions about data usage, particularly in the context of research, governance, and business operations. By recognizing the nuances between these concepts, we can leverage data more effectively for the betterment of society as a whole.

Photo via Helsinki Region Infoshare

In the 21st century, the scientific community finds itself at the cusp of a transformative era, driven by the digitalization of open science. This paradigm shift is redefining how knowledge is generated, shared, and utilized, ultimately accelerating the pace of scientific progress. Open science, characterized by transparency, accessibility, and collaboration, is leveraging digital technologies to democratize research, making it more inclusive and impactful than ever before.

Defining Open Science in the Digital Age

Open science embodies a set of principles aimed at making research processes and outcomes freely available to all. It advocates for transparency in methodology, data, and results, promoting reproducibility and peer scrutiny. The digital age has provided the tools and platforms to actualize these ideals on a global scale, breaking down barriers of geography, language, and resources.

Key Components of Digitalized Open Science

1. Open Access Journals: Digital platforms have facilitated the proliferation of open-access journals, providing a cost-effective and inclusive means for researchers to disseminate their work without subscription barriers.
2. Preprint Servers: Platforms like arXiv, bioRxiv, and SSRN enable researchers to share their findings before formal peer review, expediting the dissemination of knowledge.
3. Data Repositories: Online repositories allow researchers to share raw data, code, and supplementary materials, ensuring transparency and enabling others to verify and build upon their work.
4. Collaborative Tools: Virtual collaboration platforms, like Google Workspace, Slack, and specialized tools for scientific collaboration, facilitate real-time communication and seamless teamwork among researchers across the globe.
5. Citizen Science Initiatives: Digital platforms have opened avenues for citizen scientists to contribute to research projects, leveraging collective intelligence for data collection and analysis.

Breaking Down Barriers

Democratizing Access

Digitalization has democratized access to scientific knowledge. Researchers from resource-constrained regions now have access to a wealth of information, enabling them to engage meaningfully in global scientific discourse.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration

Digital platforms foster multidisciplinary collaboration. Researchers from diverse fields can come together effortlessly, transcending geographical boundaries, to tackle complex problems that require multifaceted expertise.

Enhancing Reproducibility

Digitalization ensures that research is more reproducible than ever. Detailed methodologies, raw data, and code are readily available, enabling other researchers to verify and build upon existing work.

Challenges and Considerations

Privacy and Security

As research data becomes more accessible, safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring data privacy are critical challenges that need to be addressed.

Quality Assurance

With the proliferation of preprints and open-access platforms, ensuring the quality and reliability of research outputs becomes paramount. Rigorous peer review and robust evaluation processes are essential.

Digital Divide

While digitalization has broadened access to scientific knowledge, it is imperative to bridge the digital divide to ensure that all researchers, regardless of location or resources, can fully participate in the open science movement.

The Future of Open Science

The digitalization of open science is poised to continue its upward trajectory, with emerging technologies like blockchain, artificial intelligence, and machine learning offering new avenues for innovation. These technologies hold the potential to further enhance transparency, reproducibility, and collaboration in scientific research.

As open science becomes increasingly ingrained in the fabric of research culture, it promises to revolutionize how discoveries are made, validated, and applied for the betterment of society. The future of science is digital, collaborative, and open.

The digitalization of open science represents a watershed moment in the history of research. By leveraging digital technologies to foster transparency, accessibility, and collaboration, the scientific community is poised to accelerate the pace of discovery and address global challenges with unprecedented vigor. As this movement continues to evolve, it is imperative that stakeholders across academia, industry, and policy continue to support and champion the principles of open science in the digital age. Together, we can unlock the full potential of human knowledge for the betterment of all.

Photo via Meister Task

Your Voice Matters in the Evolution of Open Science

In the ever-evolving landscape of scientific research, one thing remains constant: the need for innovation, inclusivity, and recognition. Researchers worldwide are consistently pushing the boundaries of human knowledge, contributing to a collective pursuit of understanding. As we embark on this exciting journey, it becomes increasingly crucial to assess and reward research efforts in ways that truly reflect the principles of Open Science.

Join the OPUS Survey in Shaping Research Assessment

The Open Science community is buzzing with excitement as the OPUS project takes center stage in the quest to revolutionize research assessment. OPUS, which stands for Open and Public Understanding of Science, aims to empower researchers and research organizations with innovative ways to assess and reward research endeavors while embracing the ethos of Open Science.

We understand that every researcher’s voice matters, and that’s why we invite you to join us in this groundbreaking initiative. By participating in the OPUS survey, you become an active contributor to the shaping of a more inclusive, fair, and rewarding research landscape. Your insights can drive the development of assessment frameworks that better align with the values of Open Science.

Survey Link: Join the OPUS Survey

Innovative Ways to Reward Researchers: Making Research Outputs More Accessible

The heart of the OPUS project lies in redefining how we evaluate research outcomes. Traditional metrics and evaluation methods often fall short in recognizing the broader impact of research and the principles of Open Science. OPUS seeks to change that.

A Game-Changer for Research Evaluation

Introducing the OPUS Research Assessment Framework

One of the key challenges in Open Science is finding effective ways to assess researchers for career progression and grant applications. The OPUS Research Assessment Framework is designed precisely for this purpose. It offers a carefully crafted set of indicators and interventions aimed at fostering Open Science practices within research organizations.

By explicitly recognizing and incentivizing Open Science practices, this framework not only promotes quality research but also encourages transparency, collaboration, and accessibility in the scientific community.

Review the Final Draft of the UNESCO Open Science Outlook until Sept 15th!

Join UNESCO in Shaping the Future of Open Science!

In addition to the OPUS project, UNESCO is also actively involved in shaping the future of Open Science. They invite experts and stakeholders, including researchers like you, to review the final draft of the UNESCO Open Science Outlook. This is a golden opportunity to have your say in the global conversation surrounding Open Science. Your input can help guide the future direction of this transformative movement.

Learn More: UNESCO Open Science Outlook

Future Events

As the Open Science movement gains momentum, there are exciting events on the horizon that you won’t want to miss:

OPUS at the upcoming EOSC Symposium 2023

Last Day to Register for Online Participation at EOSC Symposium

From September 20th to 22nd, 2023, the EOSC Symposium will take place in Madrid, Spain, under the umbrella of the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Organized by the EOSC Future project and the EOSC Tripartite collaboration, this event promises to be a gathering of minds passionate about Open Science.

If you haven’t registered yet, don’t miss your chance to participate online and connect with fellow researchers and innovators.

Learn More: EOSC Symposium 2023

OPUS Blog

Stay informed and engaged with the latest developments in Open Science by reading our blog. Here are some recent articles you might find interesting:

August 9, 2023

Navigating the Open Science Landscape: Where to Find Open Science Resources

This article explores a diverse range of platforms that offer researchers, students, and enthusiasts ample opportunities to engage with open science resources. Discover the tools and repositories that can enhance your research journey.

August 15, 2023

How to Share and Ensure Reproducibility of Data

In an era where data-driven insights drive progress, sharing data and promoting reproducibility are not just best practices – they are ethical imperatives that foster innovation and promote trust within the scientific community. Learn how to ensure the integrity of your research data.

Stay in the loop and follow us on social media for daily blog updates and news. Together, we can shape the future of Open Science.

Remember, your voice matters, and your contributions can help pave the way for a more inclusive, fair, and rewarding research landscape. Join us in the OPUS survey, participate in the upcoming events, and stay informed through our blog. Together, we can empower Open Science and create a brighter future for research.

The OPUS team has dedicated months of work to develop the first version of the OPUS Research Assessment Framework (RAF). This cutting-edge framework offers a comprehensive suite of indicators and metrics, designed specifically for research-performing organizations (RPOs) and research-funding organizations (RFOs), to assess researchers for career progression and grant applications. By implementing the OPUS RAF, RPOs and RFOs can now effectively evaluate the impact and quality of research while promoting the principles of Open Science.

The RAF incorporates an Open Science dimension, providing explicit recognition and incentives for Open Science practices. It comprises a carefully crafted set of indicators and interventions aimed at fostering Open Science practices within research organisations: RPOs and RFOs. As part of the OPUS project Work Package 2  (WP2) – Interventions for Open Science (Rewards and Incentives for Researchers) and Work Package 3 (WP3) – Indicators and Metrics for Open Science (Rewards and incentives for Researchers), two separate deliverables have been finalized to propel this transformative initiative forward:

• D.2.1 Interventions to Test in the Pilots
• D.3.1 Indicators to Test in the Pilots

The developers of the RAF have outlined ten guiding principles that will shape its implementation, ensuring a transformative impact on research evaluation practices across geographical boundaries and disciplinary constraints. Unlike traditional approaches, the RAF focuses on assessing individual researchers rather than teams or groups and combines both quantitative and qualitative assessment methods.

The RAF itself offers a comprehensive array of interventions, indicators and metrics to facilitate researcher assessment in RPOs and RFOs, covering a wide range of activities undertaken by researchers. These activities are categorized into research, education, leadership, and valorization, allowing organizations to tailor their assessment systems to their specific requirements. The framework encompasses two dimensions: a generic approach and a dedicated Open Science focus, ensuring the appropriate recognition and reward of both types of activities.

The OPUS Project Revolutionizes Research Evaluation with Groundbreaking Research Assessment Framework (RAF) and Innovative Interventions (Deliverable D2.1: Pilots Put to the Test)

The OPUS project marks a significant milestone in research evaluation, promising to transform the research landscape. By offering a robust framework and practical interventions, the project empowers RPOs and RFOs to embrace Open Science practices, fostering a culture of transparency, collaboration, and progress. 

To support the implementation of the RAF, Deliverable D2.1 presents a range of interventions to be tested during the project’s pilot phase. These interventions, outlined in detail, offer practical support for RPOs and RFOs and can be used along with the RAF framework. Through pilot initiatives at three RPOs and two RFOs within the OPUS project, selected interventions, indicators and metrics from the RAF will undergo testing to ensure their effectiveness and suitability.

The interventions within the OPUS RAF are structured based on the dimensions of the main framework, which consists of five assessment categories with subcategories. This structured approach enables a clear and cohesive implementation of the RAF. 

To ensure the successful implementation of the RAF, five categories of interventions have been identified: Policy, Resource, Repository, Awareness Raising, and Training. These interventions emphasize the need for senior management support, clear strategies, procedural guidelines, adequate resources, easily accessible repositories, education for researchers on data collection, and training initiatives to equip researchers with necessary skills.

A Holistic Approach to Research Evaluation with the OPUS Research Assessment Framework (RAF) Indicators and Metrics (Deliverable D3.1: Putting Indicators to the Test)

Deliverable D3.1 provides in-depth insights into the guiding principles, structure, and implementation of the RAF, featuring generic indicators and metrics in Section 3 and Open Science indicators and metrics in Section 4. The report concludes with a discussion on future steps and the role of the OPUS project. For a detailed overview, including all generic and Open Science indicators and metrics, Appendix 1 presents the full RAF.

A notable strength of the OPUS RAF is its ability to encompass the entire spectrum of researchers’ activities, extending beyond research-related endeavors. The framework accommodates both open and non-open activities undertaken by researchers, emphasizing the importance of transparency and collaboration in the research landscape. It even includes a dedicated framework for evaluating Open Science activities, reflecting the growing significance of openness and collaboration in the scientific community.

To capture the comprehensive nature of researchers’ activities, the OPUS RAF incorporates three types of indicators: process, output, and outcome indicators. Process indicators track ongoing or developing activities, while output indicators measure tangible products or clear endpoints resulting from those activities. Finally, outcome indicators assess the immediate or short-term results generated by the outputs.

Figure 1 showcases the categories, subcategories, and indicator groups that form the Researcher Assessment Framework.

Each indicator group within the framework is accompanied by quantitative metrics and comprises three types of indicators. Process indicators track activities in progress, output indicators measure concrete outcomes, and outcome indicators provide insight into immediate or short-term results stemming from outputs.

The OPUS RAF empowers RPOs and RFOs to select, refine, and prioritize indicators and metrics based on their specific contexts and goals. By adhering to the guiding principles and utilizing the structured interventions, organizations can confidently adopt the OPUS RAF, leading to a more comprehensive and accurate assessment of researchers.

A Collaborative Journey Towards RAF Enhancement Persists

While the OPUS Research Assessment Framework (RAF) is ready for initial implementation, it is important to note that it is still in its early draft stage. 

The development of the RAF draws inspiration from influential policy developments and existing frameworks such as the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA), Leiden Manifesto for Research Metrics, Hong Kong Principles, and Recommendations by the Open Science Policy Platform (OSSP), among others. By incorporating elements from these important documents, the RAF aims to create a comprehensive assessment tool that combines both quantitative and qualitative approaches, encompasses research and non-research activities, and caters to the unique needs of RPOs and RFOs.

Throughout the development process, key stakeholders in research assessment and Open Science have played an integral role. Partners within the OPUS project, pilot organizations, and the Advisory Board have provided valuable insights and expertise. Collaboration with external stakeholders, including the GraspOS project and other relevant entities, has further contributed to shaping the RAF. Additionally, input from pilot initiatives, targeted stakeholder feedback, and an open consultation with the wider research community will inform future iterations and enhancements of the RAF.

The OPUS team members recognize the need for further refinement to enhance its effectiveness. Over the next eighteen months, pilot institutions will have the opportunity to thoroughly test the framework and provide valuable feedback on both the indicators and interventions.

Simultaneously, a comprehensive sector-wide consultation will be conducted, involving key organizations, projects, and sector partners. This ongoing collaboration will ensure that the final output of the OPUS framework becomes a practical and user-friendly tool for European RPOs and RFOs.

During the development process, certain points for consideration and improvement have emerged. The framework aims to be comprehensive yet customizable, allowing organizations to prioritize specific areas while still covering all essential aspects. Feedback on whether any important areas have been overlooked and whether the chosen categories and indicator groups are appropriate will be crucial.

As the implementation of the OPUS RAF commences, it holds the potential to transform research evaluation practices, promoting a culture of excellence, accountability, and transparency. Institutions embracing this groundbreaking framework will drive positive change in the research community. 

Paris, France – In a world where technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace, it is imperative that we establish an ethical framework to guide the development and deployment of emerging technologies. Recognizing the significance of this issue, UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) will organize an International Conference on the Ethics of Neurotechnology, scheduled to take place on July 13, 2023, at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris.

The conference, themed “Towards an Ethical Framework in the Protection and Promotion of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms,” aims to bring together a diverse range of stakeholders, including policymakers, lawmakers, scientists, ethicists, practitioners, and private sector companies. By engaging these key players, UNESCO seeks to gather diverse perspectives and foster dialogue that will pave the way for the ethical governance of neurotechnology.

One of the highlights of the conference will be a high-level session featuring ministers and policymakers who will focus on policy actions and international cooperation. This session underscores the importance of governmental collaboration in addressing the ethical challenges posed by neurotechnology. By sharing best practices and fostering international cooperation, policymakers can establish a strong foundation for the responsible and ethical use of neurotechnology worldwide.

Renowned experts from various fields will be invited to discuss the latest technological advancements in neurotechnology and the ethical challenges and human rights implications associated with its use. By examining these complex issues, the conference aims to raise awareness among participants and foster a greater understanding of the potential risks and benefits of neurotechnology.

To further enrich the discussions, two fireside chats will be organized, focusing on the role of the private sector in ethical neurotechnology practices, as well as public awareness raising and public engagement. These interactive sessions will provide an opportunity for participants to delve deeper into these specific areas and explore innovative approaches to addressing ethical concerns.

The conference will also showcase a new study conducted by UNESCO’s Social and Human Sciences Sector. This study will shed light on the latest innovations in neurotechnology, highlighting key actors and areas of development worldwide. By staying abreast of the latest advancements in the field, UNESCO aims to ensure that its ethical framework remains relevant and adaptable to the ever-evolving landscape of neurotechnology.

Neurotechnology holds immense promise in revolutionizing healthcare, education, and entertainment. It has the potential to transform the lives of millions of individuals affected by neurological and mental illnesses, while also offering new avenues for learning and entertainment. However, as with any emerging technology, it is essential to approach its development and deployment with caution.

UNESCO’s proactive approach in promoting an ethical approach to neurotechnology is commendable. Through its International Bioethics Committee (IBC), UNESCO has already examined the ethical dimensions of neurotechnology and published a report on the subject. This report has laid the groundwork for further exploration and collaboration in shaping global standards for ethical neurotechnology practices.

With its global mandate on bioethics and the ethics of science and technology, UNESCO is well-positioned to take the lead in establishing an international ethical framework for neurotechnology. By convening experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from around the world, the International Conference on the Ethics of Neurotechnology will be a crucial step towards safeguarding human rights, protecting individual dignity, and ensuring the responsible and ethical use of this transformative technology.

As the conference approaches, anticipation grows for the valuable insights and recommendations that will emerge from this collaborative effort. By harnessing the collective wisdom and expertise of participants, UNESCO aims to set a new standard for the ethical development and deployment of neurotechnology, shaping a future that benefits all of humanity.

For more information and registration, visit the following page: International Conference on the Ethics of Neurotechnology