European Open Science Framework

• May 2, 2023

Open science is a movement that aims to make scientific research and data freely available to the public. The European Union (EU) has recognized the importance of open science and has developed a framework to promote it across Europe. The European Framework for Open Science (EFOS) provides a roadmap for researchers, institutions, and policymakers to advance open science practices and principles.

The EFOS is built on three pillars: open access to scientific publications, open research data, and open science policies. The first pillar, open access to scientific publications, ensures that the results of publicly funded research are freely accessible to everyone. This means that scientific papers should be published in open access journals or deposited in open access repositories. By making research papers available to all, the EFOS aims to increase the impact and visibility of research, promote collaboration, and facilitate innovation.

The second pillar of the EFOS is open research data. Research data is the foundation of scientific discovery, and sharing it openly can enhance transparency, reproducibility, and collaboration. The EFOS encourages researchers to share their data openly, following the FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable). By making data accessible and reusable, the EFOS aims to accelerate scientific progress and innovation.

The third pillar of the EFOS is open science policies. These policies are guidelines and recommendations that promote open science practices in research institutions, funding agencies, and governments. The EFOS encourages institutions and organizations to adopt open science policies that promote open access to publications and data, as well as transparent and reproducible research practices.

The EFOS also highlights the importance of training and education in open science practices. It encourages researchers, students, and other stakeholders to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to participate in open science activities. The EFOS provides resources and support for training and education in open science practices.

The EFOS is a significant step towards advancing open science practices in Europe. It provides a framework for researchers, institutions, and policymakers to promote open science practices and principles. By promoting open access to publications and data, transparent and reproducible research practices, and open science policies, the EFOS aims to accelerate scientific progress, enhance collaboration and innovation, and ultimately benefit society as a whole.

The European Framework for Open Science is an essential initiative that promotes open science practices and principles across Europe. It provides a roadmap for researchers, institutions, and policymakers to advance open science practices and principles, enhancing transparency, reproducibility, and collaboration. By promoting open access to publications and data, open science policies, and education and training in open science practices, the EFOS aims to accelerate scientific progress and innovation, benefiting society as a whole.