Research

In a recent cyber incident report released by the British Library, the organization sheds light on the vulnerabilities that led to a devastating ransomware attack by the notorious group Rhysida. Simon Bowie, an expert in the field, argues that this breach underscores the consequences of under-resourced technical teams and the widespread outsourcing of critical infrastructure.

The attack, orchestrated by Rhysida, resulted in significant downtime for many of the British Library’s essential systems, with some remaining inaccessible for months. Additionally, personal data belonging to employees was auctioned off on Rhysida’s dark web platform, exacerbating the fallout from the breach. Despite ongoing efforts to recover, the incident has prompted reflections on the management failures and the undervaluation of technical expertise within the library’s operations—a narrative that resonates across higher education institutions in the UK.

The British Library’s cyber incident review paper identifies several underlying issues that contributed to the breach. Outdated legacy systems, lacking adequate security measures, and an overly complex technological landscape left the institution vulnerable to attack. Furthermore, the absence of multi-factor authentication compounded these vulnerabilities, revealing systemic management deficiencies.

Notably, the report hints at a broader management problem—a shortage of investment in internal technical capabilities. The strain on the IT department, exacerbated by staff shortages and the loss of expertise due to employee turnover, suggests a reliance on outsourcing as a stopgap measure. While the paper does not explicitly state this, it implies that the library’s decision to outsource critical technology functions left it susceptible to exploitation.

The trend of outsourcing is not unique to the British Library but reflects a broader pattern within UK higher education institutions. As budgets dwindle and managerial priorities shift, libraries have increasingly turned to third-party vendors to manage their systems and infrastructure. This divestment in internal expertise, coupled with a pursuit of transient technological trends, has left libraries vulnerable to cyber threats.

Marshall Breeding’s Library Technology Guides corroborates this trend, illustrating how the majority of UK higher education providers outsource their library systems to corporate vendors. The dominance of companies like Ex Libris highlights the financial and strategic implications of this approach, often at the expense of fostering internal technical capabilities.

Bowie argues that this institutional devaluation of technical skills not only consolidates the power of corporate suppliers but also reflects a broader trend of generic management prioritized over specialized domain knowledge. The consequences of this approach were evident in the British Library’s reliance on cloud-based administrative systems, neglecting critical library management functions vulnerable to attack.

The aftermath of the 2023 British Library cyber-attack serves as a cautionary tale for cultural and heritage organizations nationwide. Instead of perpetuating the cycle of outsourcing and dependency on external vendors, Bowie advocates for a renewed focus on investing in internal expertise. By prioritizing the development of resilient IT infrastructures and bolstering library systems with dedicated technical teams, higher education institutions can mitigate the risks posed by cyber threats and safeguard their invaluable resources for generations to come.

Source: LSE Blog

The Polish Open Science Conference stands as an unique opportunity for the Open Science community, fostering dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders dedicated to advancing the principles of openness in research. This pivotal event brings together researchers, librarians, data stewards, infrastructure creators, publishers, and more to delve into the multifaceted realms of Open Science.

Dedicated to delving into various aspects of Open Science, the conference covers a wide array of topics, including data management in research projects, Open Science infrastructure, research data repositories, and the role of Open Science in scientific evaluation. With a focus on sharing experiences, trends, and challenges facing Open Science initiatives globally, the conference serves as a platform for shaping the Open Science landscape not only in Poland but also worldwide.

Building on the legacy of the Pomeranian Open Science Conference, the Polish Open Science Conference continues to evolve, drawing inspiration from six successful editions held from 2017 to 2022. This year’s conference promises to uphold its tradition of excellence, offering participants the opportunity to engage in scientific and professional discussions, exchange experiences, and gain insights into the latest developments in Open Science.

The conference invites submissions for presentations, announcements, and posters under the theme “Data in the Service of Science and Society.” Participants can explore topics such as data analysis, Open Science policy, data stewardship, and Open Access publishing, among others.

Participants can choose from various participation options, including basic, extended, and one-day tickets, with fees covering networking events, sessions, meals, and workshops. Additionally, participants have the option to join a post-conference study tour, further enriching their experience and understanding of Open Science initiatives.

Join us at the Polish Open Science Conference as we come together to explore, discuss, and shape the future of Open Science, driving innovation and collaboration for the betterment of science and society.

For inquiries and submissions, please contact: os-conf-pl@cyfronet.pl

Find out more here.

Have you ever felt like scientific research is trapped behind a fortress of jargon, paywalls, and exclusivity? Fear not, for the dawn of Open Science, Open Research, and Open Access is upon us! But wait, what exactly are these terms? How do they impact researchers, students, and the curious minds alike? Let’s embark on an exhilarating journey to demystify these concepts and unveil the secrets of the academic realm!

FAQ #1: What is Open Science?

Picture this: a scientific utopia where knowledge flows freely like a pristine river, accessible to all who thirst for understanding. That’s Open Science in a nutshell! It’s a paradigm shift towards transparency, collaboration, and unrestricted access to scientific knowledge. Gone are the days of hoarding data like a dragon guards its treasure; Open Science invites researchers to share their findings, methodologies, and even raw data with the world.

FAQ #2: What about Open Research?

Ah, Open Research, the rebellious cousin of traditional academia! While Open Science focuses on the transparency of the scientific process, Open Research extends its embrace to various scholarly endeavors, including social sciences, humanities, and beyond. Imagine a vibrant marketplace of ideas, where researchers exchange insights, methodologies, and even failures without fear of judgment or exploitation. It’s a celebration of diversity, innovation, and intellectual freedom!

FAQ #3: And what exactly is Open Access?

Imagine stumbling upon a treasure trove of knowledge, unlocked and waiting for you to explore, without the pesky barrier of a paywall. That’s the magic of Open Access! It’s a revolutionary concept that grants unrestricted access to scholarly articles, research papers, and academic resources without charging users for the privilege. No more digging through dusty archives or begging for library access; with Open Access, the world’s knowledge is just a click away!

FAQ #4: How do these concepts benefit researchers?

Ah, the million-dollar question! Open Science, Open Research, and Open Access aren’t just lofty ideals; they’re game-changers for researchers worldwide. By embracing transparency and collaboration, researchers can accelerate the pace of discovery, avoid redundant work, and foster interdisciplinary partnerships. Moreover, Open Access ensures that their findings reach a wider audience, from fellow academics to policymakers and the general public, amplifying the impact of their work beyond the ivory tower.

FAQ #5: What about students and the public?

But of course, the revolution of Open Science, Open Research, and Open Access isn’t limited to academia alone. Students, educators, and curious minds of all stripes stand to benefit from this newfound openness. For students, Open Access means access to a wealth of knowledge without breaking the bank, empowering them to explore diverse perspectives and ignite their passion for learning. As for the public, Open Science bridges the gap between ivory towers and Main Street, inviting citizens to participate in the scientific discourse, make informed decisions, and hold institutions accountable.

FAQ #6: How Does Open Science Promote Collaboration and Innovation?

Open Science fosters collaboration and innovation by breaking down barriers to information sharing and encouraging interdisciplinary cooperation. By making research findings, methodologies, and data openly accessible, researchers can build upon each other’s work more easily, leading to new insights and discoveries. This collaborative approach accelerates the pace of scientific advancement and encourages the development of novel solutions to complex problems.

FAQ #7: What Role Does Open Research Play in Democratizing Knowledge?

Open Research democratizes knowledge by making scholarly resources freely available to all, regardless of geographical location, institutional affiliation, or financial resources. By removing barriers to access, Open Research ensures that knowledge is accessible to a broader audience, including researchers in developing countries, independent scholars, policymakers, educators, and the general public. This democratization of knowledge promotes inclusivity, diversity, and equity in the academic community.

FAQ #8: Navigating the Open Access Landscape: A Treasure Map for the Modern Scholar

Navigating the Open Access landscape requires familiarity with the various models and platforms available for accessing scholarly content. Researchers can explore Open Access repositories, journals, and databases to discover a wealth of freely accessible literature spanning diverse disciplines. Additionally, tools such as the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ) and the Open Access Button can help researchers identify Open Access publications and resources relevant to their interests.

FAQ #9: The Ripple Effect: How Open Science Impacts Society Beyond Academia

Open Science has far-reaching implications beyond academia, influencing policy-making, public discourse, and societal progress. By promoting transparency, accountability, and accessibility in research, Open Science enhances public trust in scientific institutions and facilitates evidence-based decision-making. Moreover, Open Science empowers citizens to engage with scientific knowledge, participate in discussions on important issues, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge for the betterment of society as a whole.

FAQ #10: Embracing Openness: A Call to Action for the Curious Minds of Tomorrow

Embracing Open Science and Open Access is not just a trend but a transformative movement shaping the future of research and scholarship. Researchers, students, educators, policymakers, and citizens alike are encouraged to join this movement by practicing open research methods, advocating for open access policies, and supporting initiatives that promote transparency and collaboration in science. By working together to advance the principles of openness and accessibility, we can build a more inclusive, equitable, and knowledge-rich society for generations to come.

Join the movement:

And there you have it, folks! The enigmatic world of Open Science, Open Research, and Open Access demystified for your enlightenment. No longer confined to the dusty shelves of academia, these concepts are transforming the landscape of knowledge sharing, empowering researchers, students, and the public alike to embark on a journey of discovery without boundaries. So, embrace the spirit of openness, for the quest for knowledge knows no limits!

Photo via HubGem Blog

In the expansive ecosystem of academic publishing, Institutional Publishers and Service Providers (IPSPs) form a critical cornerstone, facilitating the dissemination of scholarly works through Diamond Open Access (OA) models. However, a comprehensive investigation reveals that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to the tasks undertaken by these institutions. Rather, the landscape is characterized by a diverse array of options and services distributed among the IPSPs, their parent organizations, service providers, and academic personnel.

The sustainability of IPSPs is influenced by various factors, including their missions, size, and service provision capabilities. While some institutions may strive to upscale, others prioritize maintaining their current stature. The funding models utilized by IPSPs vary significantly, with some relying on a mix of subscription fees or Article Processing Charges (APCs) alongside Diamond funding streams. Notably, the role of the parent organization is paramount for providing basic support, often in the form of in-kind assistance such as personnel and services.

Budget management emerges as a secondary concern for IPSPs compared to commercial publishers, though the majority track their expenses and revenues diligently to meet the expectations of funders, sponsors, and donors. However, the reliance on grants can burden IPSPs with administrative tasks and reporting requirements, impacting their operational efficiency.

The workforce within and outside IPSPs plays a pivotal role in their sustainability, yet the organizational structure and contribution of this workforce are often ambiguous. Peer-to-peer collaboration among IPSPs remains rare, with most collaborations occurring asymmetrically between an IP and local service providers or parent organizations.

Looking towards the future, IPSPs identify several challenges, including the need for more financial resources, instability in personnel, and dependence on parent organizations. To address these challenges, recommendations include increasing funding from national and international stakeholders, fostering collaboration among IPSPs, and investing in infrastructure to support the Diamond OA ecosystem.

In conclusion, sustaining the ecosystem of institutional Diamond OA publishing requires a multifaceted approach that involves collaboration, adequate funding, and recognition of the invaluable contributions made by IPSPs, their parent organizations, and supporting institutions. By addressing these recommendations, stakeholders can work towards a more equitable and sustainable scholarly publishing landscape.

Full study here.

In the pursuit of advancing scientific knowledge and fostering collaboration, the principles of open science have gained considerable momentum in recent years. However, to truly harness the benefits of open science, it is imperative to gauge the extent of its adoption and effectiveness across various research communities. The upcoming virtual symposium, titled “Measuring Open Science,” scheduled for April 10, 2024, at 05:00 PM, aims to address precisely this need.

Open science encompasses a range of practices, including but not limited to sharing research data, protocols, and code, as well as preprint posting and open access publishing. While numerous initiatives advocating for open science have emerged from stakeholders across the research landscape – including funders, researchers, institutions, and publishers – the extent of adoption and its variations across disciplines and geographical regions remain uncertain.

The symposium will highlight various initiatives and tools designed to measure and track progress towards open science adoption. Notable examples include the International Reproducibility Networks, which promote open research practices led by researchers themselves, and Aligning Science Across Parkinson’s, which has implemented stringent open science requirements. Additionally, eLife’s transition towards a preprint-first publishing model underscores the evolving nature of scholarly communication.

Recognizing the need for comprehensive and reliable evidence, efforts have been made to develop metrics and tools for measuring open science practices. The Charite Metrics Dashboard by BIH QUEST, along with tools like DataSeer and SciScore, offer valuable insights into the adoption of open science practices. Publishers such as PLOS have also introduced Open Science Indicators (OSI) to track these practices over time in scholarly literature.

One of the key challenges in measuring open science lies in defining and operationalizing various practices across different fields. This symposium seeks to facilitate discussions among researchers, funders, institutions, and publishers to explore commonalities and differences in approaches. By fostering collaboration and sharing insights, the event aims to propel the adoption of open science practices forward.

The symposium, organized by the Open Science Framework (@OSFramework), promises to offer valuable insights into the current state of open science adoption. Participants can expect discussions on innovative initiatives and metrics shaping the landscape of open science practices. With sessions scheduled to commence at April 10, 2024, 05:00 PM, this event presents a unique opportunity to engage with stakeholders committed to advancing open science.

In conclusion, as the scientific community continues to embrace the principles of open science, it becomes increasingly important to measure its impact and progress. The symposium on “Measuring Open Science” serves as a platform for dialogue and collaboration, paving the way for a more transparent and collaborative research ecosystem.

Register here

While April Fools’ Day may be a time for playful pranks and humorous hijinks, one thing that is definitely no joke is the concept of open science. In a world where information is often closely guarded and scientific progress can be hindered by barriers to access, open science stands as a beacon of transparency, collaboration, and innovation. It’s a movement that’s not only serious but also essential for the advancement of knowledge and the betterment of society.

At its core, open science is about making the entire research process, from data collection to publication, openly accessible to anyone interested in the findings. This means freely sharing data, methodologies, and results, allowing for greater transparency and reproducibility. By breaking down traditional barriers to access, open science democratizes information and empowers researchers from diverse backgrounds to contribute to and build upon each other’s work.

One of the fundamental principles of open science is the belief that knowledge should be a public good, not a commodity to be hoarded or monetized. This ethos not only fosters collaboration within the scientific community but also encourages broader participation from stakeholders outside academia, including policymakers, educators, and the general public. By engaging a wider audience in the scientific process, open science promotes greater accountability, trust, and relevance in research outcomes.

Moreover, open science has the potential to drive innovation and accelerate the pace of discovery by facilitating interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange. By removing barriers to access, researchers can more easily leverage existing data and methodologies from diverse fields to tackle complex scientific challenges. This interdisciplinary approach fosters creativity, sparks new ideas, and leads to breakthroughs that might not have been possible within traditional silos.

Additionally, open science promotes inclusivity and equity by making research more accessible to underrepresented groups and marginalized communities. By openly sharing data and resources, researchers can address biases and disparities in the scientific literature and ensure that diverse perspectives are represented in the research process. This not only enhances the quality and relevance of scientific research but also promotes social justice and equity in the distribution of knowledge.

However, despite its numerous benefits, open science is not without its challenges and complexities. Implementing open science practices requires overcoming institutional resistance, addressing concerns about data privacy and security, and navigating issues related to intellectual property and attribution. Furthermore, transitioning to an open science framework requires a cultural shift within the scientific community, as well as sustained investment in infrastructure and resources to support open access publishing and data sharing.

Open science is a serious endeavor with far-reaching implications for the future of research and scholarship. While it may not involve pranks or practical jokes, the impact of open science on the scientific community and society at large is no laughing matter. By embracing transparency, collaboration, and inclusivity, open science holds the promise of driving innovation, advancing knowledge, and addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing humanity. So while April Fools’ Day may come and go, the principles of open science remain as relevant and vital as ever.

Photo via Eutopia University

On May 6, 2024, KU Leuven is set to host its annual Open Science Day, a pivotal event where the university’s esteemed researchers converge to delve into the realm of Open Science. This gathering serves as a platform for sharing experiences, insights, and visions regarding the evolving landscape of scientific inquiry. Scheduled from 1:30 PM to 7:00 PM, the event will take place at the Thermotechnical Institute, specifically in the Machinezaal & Aula 2de Hoofdwet.

Fostering Openness and Collaboration

The essence of Open Science revolves around transparency, accessibility, and collaboration. At KU Leuven’s Open Science Day, these principles are celebrated as researchers from diverse backgrounds – spanning PhD students to seasoned professors – come together to illuminate the path toward a more open and collaborative research culture.

Engaging Discussions and Insights

Central to the event’s agenda is an array of enlightening discussions and presentations. Participants can expect a vibrant Open Science fair featuring posters and demos showcasing the innovative endeavors undertaken by KU Leuven researchers. Additionally, a distinguished panel will engage in a spirited debate on the role of early career researchers and their mentors in navigating the shifting landscape of Open Science.

Keynote Addresses

Renowned scholars will take the stage to deliver keynote addresses, offering invaluable perspectives on critical facets of Open Science. Paul Wouters will delve into the realm of responsible metrics, shedding light on the significance of ethical and transparent evaluation practices. Following this, Toma Susi will underscore the importance of recognizing and rewarding good research practices, emphasizing integrity and excellence in scholarly pursuits.

A Platform for Exchange and Collaboration

Beyond the formal sessions, the Open Science Day provides a conducive environment for networking and collaboration. Researchers will have the opportunity to exchange ideas, forge new collaborations, and glean insights from peers across various disciplines. Such interactions are fundamental to fostering a culture of openness, diversity, and innovation within the academic community.

Towards a Brighter Future

As the day draws to a close, participants will convene for a reception, reflecting on the day’s discussions and charting the course for the future of Open Science at KU Leuven and beyond. The event’s proceedings will be published on PubPub, ensuring that the insights and outcomes are accessible to the broader academic community.

Join the Conversation

For those eager to embrace the principles of Open Science and contribute to its advancement, KU Leuven’s Open Science Day is an unmissable opportunity. Registration is free but mandatory, with the deadline set for April 30, 2024. Together, let us embark on a journey towards a more open, collaborative, and impactful future for research.

Mark Your Calendar:

• Date: May 6, 2024
• Time: 1:30 PM – 7:00 PM
• Location: Thermotechnical Institute, Machinezaal & Aula 2de Hoofdwet, KU Leuven

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative event. Register now and be a catalyst for change in the realm of scientific inquiry!

More info at KU Leven

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

The concept of open research stands as a beacon of transparency and collaboration. Yet, beneath its surface lies a nuanced landscape of microenvironmental and macroenvironmental effects that shape its outcomes. In this article, we delve into the multifaceted impacts of open research, examining both its immediate and overarching consequences with a professional lens.

Microenvironmental Effects: At the microenvironmental level, open research fosters unprecedented transparency and collaboration among individual researchers and their immediate circles. By sharing findings, methodologies, and data openly, scholars can scrutinize, validate, and build upon each other’s work more efficiently. However, this open exchange also poses challenges, including issues related to data integrity, reproducibility, and ethical considerations. As such, navigating the dynamics of open research demands careful attention to the intricacies of individual research environments.

Macroenvironmental Effects: Zooming out to the macroenvironmental scale, the impacts of open research extend far beyond individual research settings, encompassing broader societal and ecological considerations. On one hand, open research holds the promise of democratizing access to knowledge, breaking down barriers to information for diverse communities worldwide. Yet, it also disrupts traditional models of academic publishing, posing economic challenges for publishers and threatening the livelihoods of those involved in the scholarly dissemination process. Moreover, questions of information equity and global knowledge distribution emerge, highlighting the need for equitable access and representation in the open research landscape.

To sum up, the effects of open research span both microenvironmental and macroenvironmental domains, presenting a complex interplay of opportunities and challenges. As scholars and stakeholders navigate this terrain, it is essential to maintain a professional stance, acknowledging the nuances of both individual research contexts and broader societal impacts. By doing so, we can harness the potential of open research to drive innovation, collaboration, and positive change within the academic and global communities.

Photo via UKCORR