Open Science and Research Assessment Reform: A Converging Movement for Transparent Research

• November 6, 2024

As traditional, publication-driven methods of assessing research and researchers face increasing criticism, new movements are emerging to promote responsible research assessment and Open Science practices. These two trends, now gaining momentum across Europe, offer an opportunity to reinforce one another: research assessment reform can propel Open Science adoption, and the transparency Open Science offers can drive meaningful changes in how research is evaluated.

To explore these synergies, the Centre for Science and Technology Studies (CWTS) at Leiden University is hosting a series of bimonthly sessions focused on integrating Open Science into research assessment practices.

Upcoming Session: The Barcelona Declaration on Open Research Information

The next session, taking place on 13 November 2024, from 10:00 to 11:00 CET, will focus on the Barcelona Declaration on Open Research Information. The declaration, launched in April 2024, underscores the importance of openness in research information as a foundation for research assessment reform. Signed by over 80 organizations, it calls for:

1. Default Openness of Research Information: Ensuring that research information is openly accessible, fostering transparency and accountability.
2. Collaboration with Open Services and Systems: Working with systems that support open information to benefit the research community.
3. Sustainable Infrastructures: Supporting long-term infrastructures to maintain open access to research information.
4. Unified Effort for Transition: Promoting collaboration between organizations to shift from closed, proprietary systems to open research information ecosystems.

Background: Addressing Proprietary Barriers in Research Information

Research information plays a crucial role in managing research activities and evaluating researchers and institutions. However, much of this data remains locked within proprietary infrastructures managed by for-profit companies, which primarily serve shareholder interests rather than those of the research community. The Barcelona Declaration challenges this closed system by advocating for an open research information ecosystem.

Roadmap to Open Research Information

Following the recent Paris Conference on Open Research Information (held on September 23–24, 2024), a joint roadmap was developed to transition from closed to open systems for research information. This roadmap provides a structured path forward, supporting the sustainable development of open, accessible, and equitable research infrastructures.

Panel Discussion: Insights from Leading Experts

This session will feature a panel discussion with key figures involved in the Barcelona Declaration and related initiatives:

• Bianca Kramer: Coordinator of the Barcelona Declaration.
• Thanasis Vergoulis: Representative from the GraspOS project.
• Janne Pölönen: Member of the Coalition for Advancing Research Assessment (CoARA).

The discussion will cover how open research information can enhance transparency in research assessment and the practical steps needed to make this transition. The panelists will share insights on how openness can lead to more equitable, accessible, and impactful research evaluation systems.

Who Should Attend?

This event is ideal for researchers, research managers, policymakers, and anyone interested in the future of Open Science and research assessment reform.

Register to Attend

To join this transformative discussion and receive the event link, register here. This is an opportunity to engage with leading experts and gain insights into how the future of research assessment and Open Science are interlinked. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this movement toward a transparent and responsible research ecosystem.