#OpenScience

EIFL (Electronic Information for Libraries) is hosting the first in a series of webinars dedicated to exploring the use of Open Journal Systems (OJS), a free and open-source software designed to streamline the management and publishing of scholarly journals. These sessions will highlight real-world examples of OJS implementation and its impact on academic publishing.

Webinar Details:
📅 Date: 30 January 2025
⏰ Time: 10:00–11:00 AM CET
🔗 Registration: Required. Register here.

Agenda Highlights:

• Norwegian Septentrio Academic Publishing:
  Karl Magnus Nilsen, Senior Platform Engineer, and Dr. Aysa Ekanger, Senior Platform Advisor, will discuss their experiences managing this publishing platform.
• OJS for Journals and Conferences:
  Dr. Vaso Manojlović, Journal Manager, will share insights into using OJS for both individual journals and conference proceedings.
• Open Access Metadata Harvesting:
  Friedrich Summann, CORE Operations Manager, will explain enabling the Open Access Initiative Protocol for Metadata Harvesting (OAI-PMH) in OJS.

This webinar offers a valuable opportunity for academic professionals, journal managers, and librarians to deepen their understanding of OJS and its versatile applications in supporting open access publishing.

An Open Research Conversation at the University of Sheffield

Date and Time
📅 Wednesday, January 22
🕐 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM CET
📍 Online

About the Event
Citizen science, often overshadowed in open research discussions, represents a unique form of openness, distinct from practices like open access publishing. It invites members of the public to actively participate in research by collecting and analyzing data, fostering inclusivity and collaboration between academic researchers and everyday citizens.

This one-hour session, part of the University of Sheffield’s Open Research Conversation series, delves into the challenges, benefits, and transformative opportunities of citizen science. Attendees will gain insights from experienced researchers who have led and facilitated citizen science projects across diverse fields.

Speakers:

• Dr. Jill Edmondson – School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield
• Dr. Andrea Jimenez – Information School, University of Sheffield
• Dr. Melissa Lacey and Dr. Rachel Schwartz-Narbonne – School of Biosciences and Chemistry, Sheffield Hallam University

Key Highlights:

• Learn how citizen science promotes inclusivity in research.
• Explore practical examples and methodologies for engaging the public.
• Discuss the unique challenges and benefits of citizen science projects.

The event is organized by the Scholarly Communications Team at the University of Sheffield Library and is open to researchers, educators, and anyone curious about how citizen science bridges the gap between academia and the wider community.

For more information and registration, click here.

Next Online Event: 22 January 2025, 10:00-11:00 CET

As traditional publication-driven research assessments face increasing limitations, two significant movements—Open Science and Responsible Research Assessment—are gaining momentum and reinforcing each other. Open Science offers transparency that can drive reform in research evaluation, while responsible assessment encourages practices aligned with Open Science principles. Together, these movements present an opportunity to reshape how research and researchers are evaluated.

In bimonthly sessions, facilitated by the Centre for Science and Technology Studies (CWTS) at Leiden University, stakeholders explore key questions:

• How can research assessments integrate Open Science principles?
• What does Open Science mean in practice for researchers and institutions?

Upcoming Event: Monitoring Open Science at University Level for Research Assessment

Date: 22 January 2025
Time: 10:00-11:00 CET

The upcoming session will delve into how universities monitor Open Science practices and their implications for research assessment. Experts will discuss evolving evaluation systems that consider broader research activities and ensure accessibility of scientific results.

Panelists:

• Rita Morais (European University Association): Adviser on research assessment, academic careers, and Open Science; CoARA Working Group coordinator.
• Biljana Kosanović (University of Belgrade): Open Science policy expert; OpenAIRE national coordinator for Serbia.
• Ana Đorđević (University of Belgrade – Faculty of Chemistry): Institutional repository manager; pilot coordinator for the GraspOS project.
• Nicolas Fressengeas (University of Lorraine): Open Science officer; expert in research assessment and national Open Science infrastructure.

Registration:
Sign up to receive the invitation and event link. Details will be shared closer to the date.

About the Series

The Community of Practice brings together funders, research managers, and researchers to discuss how research assessments can incorporate Open Science responsibly. Through shared experiences and insights, participants address challenges, frustrations, and successes in reforming research evaluation practices.

Objectives:

• Explore responsible research assessment frameworks that integrate Open Science principles.
• Engage with diverse epistemic communities to pilot best practices.
• By June 2025, produce a written brief summarizing key learnings, including GraspOS tool requirements and insights into responsible research assessment challenges.

Join the conversation and be part of shaping the future of research assessment.

To aid researchers in embracing Open Science, NOVA University Lisbon (one of the OPUS pilots) has developed an extensive guide. Tailored to assist academics across disciplines, this guide is a roadmap for navigating the key concepts, tools, and best practices in Open Science.

Open Science: A New Research Paradigm

NOVA University Lisbon recognises Open Science as more than a methodology; it is a guiding principle that champions transparency, collaboration, and inclusivity in research. This approach ensures that scientific knowledge benefits society as a whole, while fostering partnerships between researchers, civil society, and other knowledge systems.

By adopting frameworks such as the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) and CARE (Collective Benefit, Authority to Control, Responsibility, Ethics) principles, NOVA is creating an ecosystem where research results can be accessed, reused, and built upon with ease. Through initiatives like citizen science and open educational resources, the university is actively bridging the gap between academic research and public engagement.

A Guide to Open Science

NOVA’s guide is designed to support researchers at every stage of their work, providing tools and practices to make research processes more open and sustainable. Each chapter focuses on a specific aspect of Open Science, offering practical advice for implementation.

Key Features of the Guide:

1. Foundations of Open Science
   • Explains what Open Science is and why it matters.
   • Introduces the FAIR principles and Creative Commons licences.
2. Open Access to Publications
   • Provides guidance on how to publish openly, including information on preprints, transformative agreements, and copyright retention strategies.
3. Open Research Data
   • Outlines best practices for managing and sharing research data in compliance with FAIR principles.
4. Open Research Software
   • Offers advice on licensing and best practices for open-source software.
5. Citizen Science
   • Highlights the benefits of involving the public in research to enhance impact and inclusivity.

The guide aligns NOVA with international and national frameworks, including the UNESCO Recommendation on Open Science, the Portuguese Science Law, and guidelines from the European Commission. This ensures that NOVA’s practices meet global standards while addressing local needs.

Driving Change in Research Practices

NOVA University Lisbon is leading the way in normalising open, immediate access to research publications and data, fostering reproducibility, and promoting knowledge preservation. The university is also committed to building the necessary infrastructures and providing the skills and incentives required to support Open Science.

Through this guide, NOVA is not only supporting its researchers but also inspiring the wider academic community to adopt more open and transparent research practices. By sharing knowledge freely and engaging with society, the university is contributing to a future where scientific discoveries can have a greater and more equitable impact.

This guide is a valuable resource for researchers seeking to share their work more widely and make their research processes more transparent. By adopting the principles of Open Science, academics can create a collaborative and inclusive research environment that benefits everyone.

Explore the guide below.

Metascience, the study of science itself, has rapidly gained momentum as a transformative field. By applying scientific methods to analyze and improve the research system, it has attracted a diverse and growing community of researchers, policymakers, and practitioners worldwide. This interdisciplinary movement has catalyzed numerous initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and redesigning scientific processes.

The biennial Metascience conferences, launched at Stanford University in 2019, have become a central hub for this global community. From June 30 to July 2, 2025, the largest conference yet—Metascience 2025—will convene at University College London (UCL), hosted by the Research on Research Institute (RoRI). Located in London’s Knowledge Quarter, this event will bring together 650 participants to exchange ideas, share methods, and promote a culture of experimentation and learning.

Call for Proposals

Metascience 2025 is now accepting proposals for:

• Virtual pre-conference symposia
• In-person panels
• Talks and posters

Submissions are encouraged on all topics related to metascience, with a focus on the conference’s three key themes:

1. Institutions
   • Examining how governments, universities, funders, and private organizations are strengthening metascience.
   • Exploring effective approaches in public, private, and third sectors to enhance decision-making and research cultures.
   • Investigating new research institutions and their impact on metascience.
2. Innovations
   • Assessing the role of emerging technologies, especially AI, in advancing metascience.
   • Exploring innovations in publishing, peer review, high-risk research, and transdisciplinary approaches.
   • Scaling up successful advancements in research systems.
3. Alliances
   • Building long-term infrastructures to support metascience and open data initiatives.
   • Exploring the potential of a new Metascience Alliance to foster collaboration, career development, and experimentation.

Proposals addressing these themes, intersections between them, or novel areas of metascience are welcomed. The event encourages submissions from underrepresented groups to ensure an inclusive and diverse program.

Submission Details

• Deadline: Friday, 7 February 2025, 23:59 GMT. Late submissions may be considered based on availability.
• Notification: Selections will be announced by 21 March 2025.
• Contact: Questions can be directed to metascience@nomadit.co.uk.

Metascience 2025 promises to be a landmark event, driving innovation and collaboration across disciplines to reshape the future of research.

On January 23, 2025, Data Matters 2025 will bring together strategic data leaders from the higher education (HE) and further education (FE) sectors at The Lowry, Salford Quays. This one-day event is dedicated to addressing the challenges and opportunities of a data-driven education landscape while navigating financial pressures and their impact on student outcomes.

Harnessing the Power of Data

As education becomes increasingly data-led, institutions must develop robust data capacity and expertise. At Data Matters 2025, leading experts will share their experiences of building strong data foundations and processes, showcasing innovative tools that have enhanced decision-making and supported the achievement of institutional goals.

Programme Themes

The event will explore three key themes:

• Vision and Strategy: Developing data strategies to improve student outcomes.
• Data-led Discovery: Utilizing insights to inform decision-making on service provision.
• The Value of Data: Leveraging research to drive innovation.

To view the complete event agenda, visit the Data Matters 2025 programme.

Target Audience

Data Matters 2025 is designed for strategic data leads in HE and FE sectors working in:

• Student services and academic development.
• Business intelligence, strategy, and planning.
• Careers, employability, and HR.

Though registration has now closed, this event promises to be a valuable platform for exploring data’s role in shaping the future of education and fostering innovation across institutions.

On Monday, January 13, 2025, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM GMT, Alexis Papazoglou’s renowned “The Philosopher and the News” series will host J. McKenzie Alexander for a thought-provoking online discussion titled “The Open Society as an Enemy.” This event, part of the “On Philosophy” series, promises to re-examine the values and challenges of the Open Society in today’s world.

Nearly eight decades ago, philosopher Karl Popper laid out a compelling defense of the Open Society in his seminal work The Open Society and Its Enemies. Popper’s vision championed the principles of liberal democracy, pluralism, and reason, offering a philosophical bulwark against authoritarianism and totalitarian ideologies. However, J. McKenzie Alexander, Professor of Philosophy at the London School of Economics, argues that these values are once again under siege.

The Open Society Under Threat

Alexander highlights how, in the years following the Cold War, the values that once defined the Open Society are now being reframed as liabilities. Populist movements on both the political left and right have eroded foundational liberal democratic ideals, transforming what were once seen as virtues into perceived dangers. The rise of populist agendas, with their appeals to identity, nationalism, and disinformation, presents a profound challenge to the principles of transparency, inclusivity, and reasoned debate that underpin the Open Society.

A Call for Rehabilitation

In the face of these growing threats, Alexander asserts that the concept of the Open Society must be rehabilitated and reimagined. This involves not only defending its original values but also advancing them in a way that resonates with contemporary challenges. By doing so, we can rethink the kind of society we aim to build—one that is both achievable and sustainable in the 21st century.

The Speaker and His Vision

J. McKenzie Alexander is a leading voice in modern philosophy, with research spanning evolutionary game theory, decision theory, and formal epistemology. His latest book, The Open Society as an Enemy, published by the LSE Press, offers a timely critique of the current state of liberal democracies and a roadmap for revitalizing the Open Society’s principles.

The Host: Alexis Papazoglou

Alexis Papazoglou, the event’s host, is the Managing Editor of the LSE British Politics and Policy blog and an established figure in philosophical discourse. Known for his engaging podcast The Philosopher and the News, Papazoglou brings complex philosophical debates into public conversation, making them accessible and relevant to contemporary audiences.

Event Details

• Title: The Open Society as an Enemy
• Date: Monday, January 13, 2025
• Time: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM GMT
• Location: Online via Zoom
• Registration: Visit the event website for details.

For more information, visit J. McKenzie Alexander’s official website or explore his book, The Open Society as an Enemy, available through the LSE Press.

This event offers a unique opportunity to engage with pressing philosophical and political issues, challenging us to reconsider the fundamental principles that shape our societies. Join the conversation to explore how we can preserve and advance the ideals of the Open Society in an increasingly polarized world.

Are you tasked with implementing an Open Access (OA) publishing strategy or managing the day-to-day operations of an OA journal? If so, a practical, hands-on training course on Open Access publishing will be held on Tuesday, April 22, and Wednesday, April 23, 2025.

Course Details

• Session Times:
  • 09:00-12:00 (EDT)
  • 14:00-17:00 (BST)
  • 15:00-18:00 (CEST)
  • Networking: 15 minutes before the second session on April 23.
• Note: Sessions will not be recorded.

What You’ll Learn

Participants will gain valuable tools and insights into the unique challenges of managing Open Access journals, with a focus on:

• The similarities and differences between OA and traditional subscription publishing.
• Open Access workflows, business models, and recent policy developments like Plan S.
• Building strong relationships with stakeholders in an OA context.
• Strategic considerations, including journal economics, pricing strategies, and marketing techniques for OA publications.
• Hands-on approaches for launching, converting, and expanding OA journals, using case studies and group discussions.

The course will also touch upon Green Open Access and alternative Gold OA models, with a primary focus on Gold OA journals using Article Publishing Charges (APCs).

Who Should Attend?

This training is ideal for:

• Journal publishing managers
• Publishing editors
• Production managers
• Publishers responsible for OA strategy and programme development

While prior awareness of the OA industry is helpful, it is not mandatory.

Programme Highlights

The course will cover topics such as:

• Introduction and Overview: History and types of OA, and why OA matters.
• Strategic Landscape: Global growth, drivers, funder mandates, and policies like Plan S.
• Ethics: Responsible publishing, best practices, and decision-making challenges.
• Marketing: Community engagement, stakeholder roles, APC justification, and branding.
• Business Models: Revenue models, payer dynamics, and impacts on the publishing business.
• Economics & Finance: OA profitability, pricing strategies, cost drivers, and financial modeling.
• Workflow & Compliance: Managing OA workflows, compliance issues, and development.
• Portfolio Review: Success factors, portfolio analysis, and journal development.

Expert Tutors

• Fiona Hutton – Head of Publishing, eLife Sciences Publications
• Dan Pollock – Consultant, Silicon Guru Ltd

Participants from previous sessions have praised the course’s depth and practical approach:

• “The tutors were knowledgeable, and the course covered a broad range of topics. It helped me better understand licensing and agreements I previously found confusing.” – Caitlin Alder, BMJ
• “This course regenerated my excitement about Open Access publishing while providing greater insight into its complexities.” – Helen Pedersen, John Wiley & Sons

Registration

• Member early bird rate ends: January 22, 2025

Equip yourself with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to excel in Open Access publishing. Don’t miss this opportunity to advance your expertise in this growing field!

On January 22, 2025, at 10:00 AM, the European Citizen Science (ECS) project will host a pivotal policy event, “Citizen Science Beyond 2030: Societal Engagement for a Sustainable Future.” This event will explore the significant role of citizen science in advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and shaping sustainability transitions for the future.

The Role of Citizen Science in Sustainability

Citizen science has proven its value in tackling global challenges by contributing monitoring data, raising public awareness, and inspiring behavioral change. This event will highlight progress made in utilizing citizen science to address sustainability goals and discuss strategies to enhance its impact both within the current SDG framework and beyond 2030.

Expert Panel Discussions

A distinguished panel of experts from academia, policymaking, and citizen science networks will guide discussions on strengthening citizen science for sustainable development. The panel includes:

• Michael Arentoft (DG Research & Innovation, European Commission)
• Dr. Dilek Fraisl (IIASA, Citizen Science Global Partnership)
• Professor Francois Grey (University of Geneva, Citizen Cyberlab)
• Professor Ariane König (University of Luxembourg)
• Professor Walter J. Radermacher (Federation of European National Statistical Societies)

Event Objectives

The event will:

• Assess progress made in leveraging citizen science for sustainability.
• Discuss how citizen science can adapt and expand its contributions to the SDGs beyond 2030.
• Highlight actionable recommendations to support citizen science initiatives through policies, resources, and networks.

About the ECS Project

The European Citizen Science (ECS) project, funded by the EU under Horizon Europe (August 2022 – July 2026), aims to strengthen citizen science as a research approach for scientific excellence and sustainable development across Europe. ECS fosters collaboration through:

• Networking events to connect stakeholders.
• A comprehensive platform offering resources and information.
• Capacity-building and training initiatives.
• Technical support for citizen science projects.
• Policy engagement to embed citizen science in sustainable development strategies.

This event represents a critical opportunity to shape the future of citizen science, ensuring it continues to empower communities and contribute meaningfully to a sustainable and equitable world.

SciLink Foundation is launching 2025 with their first webinar, “Advancing Integrity in Academia,” scheduled for January 17th, from 12–1 PM CET. This engaging session will feature two esteemed experts, Mariana Rosca, PhD, and Lluis Montoliu, PhD, who will share their insights on fostering ethical practices and transparency in academic research.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and contribute to building a culture of integrity in academia.

📅 Mark Your Calendars

• Webinar Date: January 17, 2025
• Time: 12–1 PM CET
• Where: Online

Stay tuned for their next webinar on January 30th—details coming soon!

🖥️ Register today and join in shaping the future of academic excellence!