Call planning Open Science NL: Open Science Infrastructure Call

• March 26, 2024

Since its inception, Open Science NL has been diligently refining its funding mechanisms in line with its work programme. Soon, three distinct calls will be unveiled: one targeting the reinforcement of Local and Thematic Data Competence Centers (DCCs), another designed for open science infrastructure endeavors, and a third intended to enhance the acknowledgment and incentives associated with open science.

The Open Science NL work programme for 2024-2025 comprises 15 instruments strategically aligned across five priority domains to advance the transition to open science.

Kicking off the roster of initiatives under this programme, Open Science NL recently unveiled a grant opportunity tailored for open science assemblies. Moreover, in a notable move, the Steering Board allocated funds on March 15th towards bolstering the Citizen Science Netherlands network. With a substantial allocation of 1.1 million euros, the aim is to elevate the professional standards of citizen science and foster social engagement over the ensuing four years, fostering tighter bonds within the communities it serves. Concurrently, collaborative efforts with various partners are underway to orchestrate the National Open Science Festival, slated to be held on October 22nd at Maastricht University.

The imminent call will target the fortification of Local and Thematic DCCs. Existing entities such as Local DCCs, Thematic DCCs, and the Netherlands eScience Center will have the opportunity to apply for projects aimed at enhancing their research software training provisions and bolstering expertise in research data interoperability. A budget of EUR 15 million has been earmarked for this endeavor.

During its March 15th meeting, the Open Science NL Steering Committee deliberated on the initial framework of the Open Science Infrastructure programme. This initiative will focus on nurturing digital infrastructures conducive to open science, encompassing software, workflows, platforms, and digital services. The program’s scope spans the development of novel infrastructures as well as the enhancement of existing ones within the broader spectrum of open science, encompassing areas like open access publishing, data sharing, research software and hardware, and infrastructure supporting citizen science and societal engagement. In its inaugural round, a funding pool of EUR 7.5 million will be made available, with the call for proposals slated to open for submissions in the latter half of 2024.

Preparations are also underway for a forthcoming call targeting the recognition and incentivization of open science endeavors. This initiative aims to assist universities, university medical centers, and NWO and KNAW institutes in integrating open science benchmarks into their policies governing the recruitment and advancement of both academic and professional support staff. This program will be closely aligned with the national Recognition and Rewards program, with plans to unveil the call before the onset of summer.

Learn more at Open Science NL

Photo via EPFL