OPUS at the at the Ukrainian Open Science Forum (UOSF-2024)

• November 25, 2024

The OPUS project took stage at the Ukrainian Open Science Forum (UOSF-2024), held at Lviv Polytechnic National University from 21 to 23 November. Presented by TGB, OPUS’s outreach highlighted our approaches to research assessment reform, in alignment with CoARA (Coalition for Advancing Research Assessment) principles and the core values of Open Science.

The UOSF-2024, a landmark hybrid event under the EU-funded OPTIMA project, brought together international experts in Open Science, research policy, and academic integrity. The forum was further enhanced by its partnership with the 11th International Youth Science Forum ‘Litteris et Artibus’ and the Kick-Off Conference of the newly-launched Ukrainian Reproducibility Network, making it a dynamic platform for idea exchange, policy dialogue, and international collaboration.

Advancing Transparent and Equitable Evaluation

During the OPUS presentation, TGB underscored the significance of transparent and fair evaluation in the research system. By advocating for assessment reforms guided by CoARA and Open Science, OPUS aims to transform research appraisal culture, moving away from traditional metrics towards values-based, qualitative judgement. This approach, delegates heard, is critical for fostering integrity and innovation within Ukraine’s research ecosystem and for informing broader strategies across Europe.

“Opening up research assessment is a catalyst for excellence and trust in science. OPUS is committed to advancing policies that value openness, transparency and diversity in scientific contributions,” TGB commented during his session.

UOSF-2024: Forging Networks and Shaping Policy

The Ukrainian Open Science Forum gathered participants from the EU, UK, USA and other countries to share perspectives, experiences and best practices. Discussions focused on the implementation of Ukraine’s National Open Science Plan, academic integrity, reproducibility, and strengthening scientific and educational systems through international partnerships.

Of particular note was the launch of the Ukrainian Reproducibility Network, which aims to address global challenges in research reliability and transparency. Forum speakers and panels explored current trends in research assessment, open data, and the future of scholarly communication.

OPTIMA Project: Culmination and Impact

UOSF-2024 marked the culmination of the four-year OPTIMA Project (Erasmus+ CBHE), which has significantly contributed to Ukraine’s science reform agenda by promoting open science principles, ethical standards, and capacity-building initiatives.

As the forum closed, organisers and participants reaffirmed their commitment to building an open and reproducible scientific environment in Ukraine, with the OPUS project at the forefront of research assessment reform.