Research

In the age of digital information, access to knowledge is often seen as a fundamental right, vital for both researchers and the general public alike. However, the reality is often far from ideal, with a significant portion of scholarly research locked behind paywalls and subscription fees. While subscriptions have long been the norm for academic journals and databases, their impact on open access cannot be overstated. In this blog post, we delve into the hidden costs of subscriptions and how they pose a barrier to open access for both researchers and the public.

1. Restricted Access to Research: One of the most glaring issues with subscription-based models is the restricted access they impose on scholarly research. Many high-impact journals and databases require expensive subscriptions, effectively putting a price tag on knowledge. This means that individuals without access through institutional affiliations or personal subscriptions are often left in the dark, unable to reach crucial research findings. Such restrictions not only hinder the progress of individual researchers but also impede the advancement of knowledge as a whole.
2. Financial Burden on Institutions: Subscriptions come with a hefty price tag, and these costs are often shouldered by academic institutions, libraries, and research organizations. The ever-increasing subscription fees can strain institutional budgets, forcing them to make difficult decisions about which resources to prioritize. This financial burden not only limits the institutions’ ability to provide access to a wide range of research but also diverts funds away from other critical areas such as faculty development, student support, and infrastructure improvement.
3. Exclusion of Marginalized Communities: The subscription-based model exacerbates inequalities in access to information, particularly for marginalized communities. Individuals from low-income backgrounds, researchers in developing countries, and independent scholars often face significant barriers in accessing subscription-based content due to financial constraints. This perpetuates disparities in knowledge dissemination, reinforcing existing power imbalances within academia and society at large.
4. Stifling Innovation and Collaboration: Open access fosters collaboration and innovation by allowing researchers from diverse backgrounds to freely access and build upon existing knowledge. However, subscription barriers hinder this collaborative spirit by limiting the circulation of research findings. As a result, potential collaborations may be stifled, and valuable insights may remain untapped, ultimately slowing down the pace of scientific progress.
5. Impact on Public Understanding: Access to scientific research shouldn’t be limited to academic circles alone; it’s equally essential for the public to engage with and understand the latest advancements. Subscription barriers prevent broader dissemination of knowledge to the public, hindering science communication efforts and impeding informed decision-making on societal issues. This lack of accessibility undermines the democratic principles of knowledge sharing and stifles public discourse on matters of scientific importance.

While subscriptions may offer a revenue stream for publishers, their impact on open access cannot be ignored. The barriers they pose to researchers and the public hinder the free flow of information, stifle collaboration and innovation, and perpetuate inequalities in knowledge dissemination. As advocates for open access, it’s crucial for researchers, institutions, and policymakers to explore alternative models that prioritize equitable access to scholarly research for all. Only by breaking down these barriers can we truly realize the transformative potential of open access for advancing knowledge and benefiting society as a whole.

Photo via PCmag

Today, let’s dive into a topic that’s as diverse as the colors of the rainbow: diversity in academia. Picture this: academia is like a vibrant garden, bursting with different flowers, each unique in its beauty and contribution. But just like any garden, it requires care and attention to ensure that all flowers, regardless of their shape, size, or color, have the opportunity to thrive. So, let’s grab our watering cans and gardening gloves as we explore what diversity in academia truly means and how we can nurture it fairly.

First things first, what exactly is diversity in academia? Well, it’s not just about ticking boxes or meeting quotas. Diversity is about recognizing and celebrating the rich tapestry of human experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds that make up the academic community. It’s about embracing differences in race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, disability, and more, because it’s these differences that enrich our collective understanding and propel us forward in our quest for knowledge.

Now, you might be wondering: how do we ensure that our academic garden is truly diverse and inclusive? Here are a few human-friendly strategies to consider:

1. Cultivating Inclusive Spaces: Just like plants need the right soil to grow, people need inclusive environments to thrive. This means creating spaces where everyone feels welcome, valued, and respected, regardless of who they are or where they come from. It’s about fostering a culture of belonging where diverse voices are heard and celebrated.
2. Seeding Opportunities Equitably: Imagine if only certain flowers were given sunlight and water, while others were left to wither in the shade. That wouldn’t be fair, right? Similarly, we must ensure that opportunities for education, funding, mentorship, and advancement are distributed equitably among all members of the academic community. This might mean implementing targeted outreach programs, providing financial support for marginalized students, or actively seeking out diverse perspectives in hiring and promotion decisions.
3. Nurturing Talent and Potential: Just like plants need care and attention to reach their full potential, so too do aspiring scholars from underrepresented backgrounds. This means providing mentorship, support, and resources to help them flourish academically and professionally. It’s about recognizing and nurturing talent wherever it may be found, rather than confining it to traditional molds or expectations.
4. Harvesting the Fruits of Diversity: Diversity isn’t just a feel-good buzzword; it’s also a catalyst for innovation and excellence. Research has shown time and again that diverse teams are more creative, more productive, and better equipped to tackle complex problems. By harnessing the power of diversity, we can unlock new insights, break down barriers, and pave the way for groundbreaking discoveries that benefit us all.
5. Continuously Tending to the Garden: Achieving diversity and inclusion isn’t a one-time task; it’s an ongoing commitment that requires constant care and attention. Just as a garden requires regular watering, pruning, and weeding to stay healthy, so too does academia require ongoing efforts to address systemic biases, dismantle barriers, and promote fairness and equity for all.

So there you have it, my fellow gardeners of knowledge: a human-friendly guide to fostering diversity and inclusion in academia. By embracing our differences, nurturing our collective potential, and tending to our academic garden with care and compassion, we can create a more vibrant, equitable, and flourishing scholarly community for generations to come. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work, because together, we can cultivate a brighter future for academia and beyond!

Photo via builtin

Today, I want to dive into a topic that’s causing ripples in the academic world: the disruptive force of open access on publisher monopolies. Now, you might be wondering, what’s the big deal with open access, and why should we care about challenging publisher monopolies? Well, my friends, buckle up because we’re about to embark on a journey through the fascinating realm of academic publishing.

Let’s start with the basics. Academic publishing has long been dominated by a handful of big players who hold the keys to accessing scholarly research. These publishers wield immense power, controlling the dissemination of knowledge and reaping hefty profits along the way. Sounds a bit unfair, doesn’t it? That’s where open access swoops in like a superhero with a cape fluttering in the wind.

So, what exactly is open access? Simply put, it’s a movement aimed at making scholarly research freely available to anyone with an internet connection. No paywalls, no subscriptions, just pure, unadulterated knowledge accessible to all. It’s like breaking down the gates of the ivory tower and inviting everyone to the feast of learning.

But why does open access matter? Well, imagine you’re a curious soul eager to explore the latest breakthroughs in your field of interest. You stumble upon a groundbreaking study, only to be greeted by a hefty price tag just to read it. Talk about a buzzkill, right? Open access flips the script by tearing down these barriers, allowing researchers, students, and enthusiasts alike to explore a treasure trove of academic literature without emptying their wallets.

Now, here’s where things get really interesting. By challenging publisher monopolies, open access is shaking up the status quo and ushering in a new era of democratized knowledge. Gone are the days when a select few dictated the flow of information. With open access, researchers have the power to share their findings freely, accelerating the pace of discovery and fostering collaboration on a global scale.

But make no mistake, breaking down publisher monopolies isn’t a walk in the park. It’s a David-versus-Goliath battle where entrenched interests clash with the forces of change. Yet, the momentum is on the side of open access advocates, fueled by grassroots movements, institutional mandates, and the relentless march of progress.

So, what’s next on the horizon for open access? Well, the future looks bright, my friends. As more institutions and funders throw their weight behind open access initiatives, the walls of the old publishing fortress are starting to crumble. We’re witnessing a seismic shift in how knowledge is produced, shared, and consumed—a revolution driven by the simple yet profound idea that knowledge should be free for all.

As I wrap up this journey through the world of open access, I invite you to join the movement, whether as a researcher, a reader, or simply a curious soul hungry for knowledge. Together, we can continue to chip away at publisher monopolies, paving the way for a more equitable and accessible future of scholarly communication. After all, in the words of the great Isaac Newton, “If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” With open access, those shoulders are within reach of us all.

Photo via The Fire Place

Hey there, fellow knowledge seekers! Today, I’m thrilled to shine a spotlight on some of the leading institutions driving the open science movement forward. Yes, you guessed it right—it’s time to talk about the University Champions of Open Science!

In our journey towards a future where knowledge knows no bounds, several universities stand out for their unwavering commitment to open science principles. Let’s take a closer look at a few of these trailblazers:

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): Ah, MIT—the hallowed halls where innovation thrives and boundaries are meant to be pushed. But did you know that MIT isn’t just about cutting-edge research and mind-boggling inventions? It’s also a beacon of open access and knowledge sharing. From their pioneering OpenCourseWare initiative, which makes course materials freely available online, to their advocacy for open access publishing, MIT is a true champion of open science.

University of California, Berkeley: Nestled in the vibrant city of Berkeley, this institution is not only renowned for its towering redwoods but also for its staunch support of open access and open science initiatives. UC Berkeley’s libraries provide extensive resources and guidance for researchers looking to make their work more accessible to the world. Plus, the university isn’t shy about advocating for policies that promote the sharing of research outputs—because knowledge is meant to be shared, not hoarded behind closed doors.

Stanford University: Welcome to the land of innovation and Silicon Valley dreams—Stanford University. But beyond the buzz of startup culture lies a deep commitment to open science. Stanford’s Open Data Project is a testament to this commitment, aiming to make research data more accessible and reusable for all. And let’s not forget the university’s dedication to hosting workshops and seminars on open science topics, encouraging researchers to embrace transparency and collaboration in their work.

University College London (UCL): Across the pond in the bustling heart of London, UCL stands tall as a champion of open science. With its Office for Open Science and Scholarship leading the charge, UCL provides invaluable guidance and support for researchers eager to adopt open science principles. Whether it’s advocating for open access publishing or hosting events to raise awareness about the importance of openness in research, UCL is paving the way for a more transparent and inclusive scientific community.

University of Cambridge: Last but certainly not least, we have the historic University of Cambridge—a bastion of learning and discovery for centuries. But don’t let its ancient roots fool you—Cambridge is at the forefront of the open science movement. With dedicated support services for researchers seeking to make their work more accessible and a commitment to hosting events and workshops on open science topics, Cambridge is ensuring that the pursuit of knowledge remains open to all who seek it.

These universities, along with many others around the globe, are leading the charge towards a future where knowledge is free, accessible, and inclusive. So here’s to the University Champions of Open Science—may their dedication to openness and collaboration inspire us all to unlock the secrets of the universe, one discovery at a time!

Photo via NumFocus

Abstract: Open Science (OS) has emerged as a transformative approach to research, aiming to democratize access to knowledge and enhance its societal impact. However, assessing this impact poses significant challenges. This scoping review systematically examines existing evidence on the societal impact of OS, encompassing various aspects such as Citizen Science (CS), Open Access (OA), and Open/FAIR Data (OFD). Through a meticulous analysis of 196 studies, this review identifies key areas of impact and sheds light on knowledge gaps, providing insights for future research and policy development.

Introduction: In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on measuring the societal impact of academic research, driven by government policies and funding frameworks worldwide. The adoption of Open Science (OS) practices aligns with this agenda, aiming to foster transparency, inclusivity, and accessibility in research. Despite these intentions, the empirical evidence regarding the societal impact of OS remains scarce. This review aims to address this gap by systematically synthesizing existing literature on the topic.

Methods: This review follows the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews methodology and poses primary and secondary research questions to guide the study. Through a comprehensive search strategy across academic databases and grey literature sources, relevant studies are identified, selected, and analyzed. The study protocol, pre-registered and published on the Open Science Framework platform, ensures methodological rigor and transparency.

Results: The review identifies 196 studies providing evidence of societal impact driven by OS, with a predominant focus on Citizen Science (CS), followed by Open Access (OA). Key areas of impact include education and awareness, climate and environment, and social engagement. However, limited evidence is found regarding the impact of Open/FAIR Data (OFD) and other aspects of OS, such as policy, health, and trust in academic research.

Discussion: The findings underscore the need for further empirical research to comprehensively understand the societal impact of OS. While OS holds the potential to enhance societal benefit, challenges related to causality and measurement persist. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts from researchers, funders, and policymakers to develop robust methodologies and frameworks for assessing impact.

Conclusion: This scoping review provides valuable insights into the societal impact of Open Science, highlighting both its potential and limitations. By elucidating key areas of impact and identifying knowledge gaps, this review informs future research agendas and policy interventions aimed at maximizing the societal benefits of OS.

Keywords: Open Science, Societal Impact, Citizen Science, Open Access, Research Policy, Scoping Review.

Cole, N. L., Kormann, E., Klebel, T., Apartis, S., & Ross-Hellauer, T. (2024, February 21). The societal impact of Open Science–a scoping review. https://doi.org/10.31235/osf.io/tqrwg

Photo via Open Access Belgium

In recent years, Eurodoc has taken significant strides towards advancing Gender Equality in academia, alongside a heightened focus on diversity and inclusion. Last year, their initiative spotlighted the invaluable contributions of female researchers within the Eurodoc community through the “Women in Research” campaign. Building upon this momentum, they are thrilled to announce the expansion of this campaign to embrace researchers of all genders, underscoring our belief that everyone plays a pivotal role in promoting gender equality in research environments.

Symbolically launching on March 8th, International Women’s Day, our campaign seeks to address the multifaceted nature of gender discrimination as outlined in the Istanbul Convention. It encompasses not only discrimination faced by women due to socially prescribed roles but also extends to challenges encountered by individuals whose gender identity or sexual orientation deviates from societal norms. Understanding that these dimensions of discrimination stem from deeply entrenched cultural paradigms, we aim to create a platform where diverse voices can converge to advocate for equal rights across all spheres of life.

At the heart of their campaign lies a commitment to amplifying the stories of researchers who defy stereotypes and champion inclusivity within academia. Each participant brings a unique perspective, reflecting a rich tapestry of backgrounds, experiences, and aspirations in the pursuit of knowledge. By sharing these narratives, they hope to cultivate a diverse array of role models, demonstrating that excellence in research transcends traditional notions of merit and is inclusive of all who are passionate about advancing knowledge.

As they invite researchers to join our campaign, they encourage reflection on the following questions:

1. Who are you, and where are you from?
2. What is your research about?
3. Why did you pursue a career in research?

In addition, participants are invited to share their insights on why gender equality is important to them and offer examples of strategies for fostering inclusivity within research environments.

To take part in the campaign, simply fill out the Google form linked below and share your story on social media using the hashtags: #WeAreEurodoc, #WomenInResearch, #Eurodoc, #doctoralcandidates, #early_career_researchers. Together, let us pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive future in academia.

Google Form: Participate in the Campaign

More at Eurodoc

The final event of the Responsible Open Science in Europe (ROSiE) project is set to take place next Wednesday, the 21st of February, at 15:00 CET. The event will be hosted both physically at the European Parliament and virtually, opening its discussions to a global audience.

Themed ‘Research Integrity in Open Science for Europe,’ the event will delve into the intricate intersection of Open Science practices with existing policies, posing potential challenges such as conflicts with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), intellectual property regulations, and funding restrictions. Esteemed experts will lead discussions on the imperative need for a robust governance structure that can drive a paradigm shift in scientific approaches, guided by the principles of Research Ethics and Integrity.

Organised by the European Parliament’s STOA Panel for the Future of Science and Technology, the workshop promises to be a focal point for policymakers, scientists, and stakeholders alike. As Open Science continues to evolve, it becomes essential to address the ethical, legal, and regulatory aspects to ensure a harmonious coexistence with existing frameworks.

Research integrity is a foundation of excellent science and the cornerstone of societal trust in researchers and research institutions. Advancing research integrity across Europe is of the utmost importance to ensure the high quality of science, including reproducibility of research results, and to ensure a fruitful relationship between science and society.

Open Science (OS) is an approach to the scientific process that focuses on spreading knowledge as soon as it is available using digital and collaborative technology. Open Science is a policy priority for the European Union and the standard method of working under its research and innovation funding programmes as it improves the quality, efficiency and responsiveness of research.

The roundtable intends to uncover how unchecked challenges in Open Science can jeopardize academic freedom. Open Science demands a shift in scientific mindset and robust governance structures–infrastructure, codes of conduct, regulations, and training. Deficiencies in these elements pose critical threats to researchers and institutions, impacting academic freedom, diversity, and inclusivity in science.

Experts, researchers together with policy makers discuss how Open Science in Europe intersects with policy, potentially conflicting with GDPR, intellectual property regulations, and funding restrictions. They also explore the imperative for a governance structure driving a paradigm shift in science, guided by Research Ethics and Integrity.

Programme

15.00 – 15.05 Opening

· Ivars IJABS MEP and STOA Vice-Chair

15.05 – 15.10 Keynote

· Iliana IVANOVA, EU Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth

15.10 – 15.30 Keynote ‘Science in Transition’

· Frank MIEDEMA, Professor of Open Science, University of Utrecht

15:30 -16:30 Panel discussion ‘Open Science challenges’

• Elizabeth GADD, Head of Research Culture & Assessment at Loughborough University
• Marcel BOGERS, Professor of Open & Collaborative Innovation, Eindhoven University of Technology
• Henriikka MUSTAJOKI, Head of Development, Open Science, Finland

Moderator: Rose BERNABE, Professor of Research Ethics and Research Integrity, University of Oslo

+ Q&A

16:30 -16:50 Coffee break

16:50 -17:55 Panel discussion ‘Responsible Open Science in Europe General Guidelines and Academic Freedom’

• Rose BERNABE, Professor of Research Ethics and Research Integrity, University of Oslo
• Olivier LE GALL, Chair of the French Advisory Board on Research Integrity
• Signe MEZINSKA, Associate Professor and Senior Researcher, University of Latvia
• Kadri SIMM, Chair of the Practical Philosophy, Associate Professor, University of Tartu

Moderator: Rose BERNABE, Professor of Research Ethics and Research Integrity, University of Oslo

+ Q&A

17:55 – 18:00 Closing remarks

· Ivars IJABS, MEP and STOA Vice-Chair

#EP4AcademicFreedom

The event will be held in EN.

The event will be webstreamed.

More information, the programme and the registration link are here. The introductory interview is available here.

EuroScience Open Forum (ESOF) 2024 will take place from June 12 to June 15, 2024, in Katowice, Poland.

The EuroScience Open Forum is a biennial meeting designed to offer the scientific community a platform for interdisciplinary and intersectional debate about scientific culture, scientific research, and innovation. It is created for society’s benefit and carried out with society’s participation.

Goal of the conference
The main goal of the ESOF2024 conference is to explore the connections between science and society, the conditions for conducting research, and their impact on society. We aim to stimulate debate on social changes related to science and analyse the social, cultural, and economic consequences of scientific breakthroughs at regional, national, European, and global levels. In the face of global challenges and to enhance international scientific cooperation, scientists want to discuss science as a factor of change in our lives and how life changes science.

The programme includes lectures, seminars, a debate, workshops, poster presentations and exhibitions, interactive sessions, and a wide array of public engagement forms. The theme for ESOF 2024 is: Life changes science. 

Katowice will host Europe’s and the world’s leading personalities in the world of science, academic researchers, representatives of public and non-public institutions supporting science, business people, representatives of media, and those interested in the role of science in the contemporary world. 

ESOF2024 is centred around the six main areas corresponding to the biggest challenges science is currently facing:

1. Energy Transition
2. Sustainable Environment
3. Cultural Identity and Societal Transformation
4. Changes Within Scientific Excellence
5. Healthy Society
6. Digital Transformation

https://www.esof.eu/esof2024

Are you passionate about citizen science? Do you have a project that aims to make a positive impact on society? If so, IMPETUS wants to hear from you! The IMPETUS 2nd Joint Open Call is now open, offering exciting opportunities for both new and existing citizen science initiatives.

What is IMPETUS?

IMPETUS is dedicated to fostering innovation and collaboration in citizen science. Through their Accelerator Programme and the European Union Prize for citizen science, they aim to support and recognize outstanding projects that engage communities, address societal challenges, and promote sustainable practices.

Accelerator Programme Opportunities

If you’re considering launching a new citizen science project or seeking support to sustain an existing one, the IMPETUS Accelerator Programme is for you. Successful applicants can receive:

• Kickstarting grants: €20,000, mentoring, and training support for new projects.
• Sustaining grants: €10,000, mentoring, and training support for ongoing projects.

This year’s Accelerator challenges focus on “Sustainable Lifestyles,” “Justice and Equity,” and “Citizen Science for and With Communities.” Your project should align with one or more of these themes.

Who Can Apply?

Individuals, organizations, and consortia from eligible countries can apply for funding. Whether you’re a researcher, a community group, or an organization in the public or private sector, IMPETUS welcomes your innovative ideas and contributions.

European Union Prize for Citizen Science

In addition to the Accelerator Programme, IMPETUS is offering the European Union Prize for citizen science. This prize recognizes exceptional initiatives with a €60,000 Grand Prize, along with awards for Diversity & Collaboration and Digital Communities.

Why Should You Apply?

IMPETUS values inclusivity and seeks projects that make a difference on local, national, or international levels. They’re particularly interested in initiatives that engage marginalized or disadvantaged groups and explore novel participatory roles for citizens and stakeholders.

Important Dates and Resources

• Open Call Launch: January 10th, 2024
• Prize Call Closes: March 11th, 2024
• Accelerator Call Closes: March 14th, 2024

For more information, visit the IMPETUS website and access application forms, guides, and FAQs. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a vibrant community dedicated to advancing citizen science!

Join IMPETUS today and be a catalyst for positive change through citizen science.

Click here to access application forms and submission platform.

For any questions, reach out to opencall@impetus4cs.eu.

Stay connected for updates on additional translations and further opportunities at IMPETUS website!