#ResearchAssessment

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

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an integral part of our daily lives, reshaping how we interact with technology and influencing various sectors, including research and innovation. In recent years, there has been an unprecedented surge in advancements in AI, driven by factors such as increased data availability, enhanced computing power, and breakthroughs in machine learning algorithms. Among these advancements, the development of generative AI, capable of producing content across multiple domains, has garnered significant attention.

Generative AI, powered by foundation models trained on extensive unlabelled data, has led to the emergence of ‘General Purpose AI,’ capable of generating diverse content, including text, images, code, and more. The quality of output generated by these models often rivals that of human-generated content, blurring the lines between artificial and human creativity.

However, with the widespread adoption of generative AI comes a host of challenges and ethical considerations. The proliferation of AI-generated content raises concerns about the spread of disinformation and the potential misuse of AI for unethical purposes. In the realm of research, while generative AI holds promise for accelerating scientific discovery and improving research processes, it also poses risks to research integrity and raises questions about responsible use.

To address these challenges, the European Research Area Forum, in collaboration with various stakeholders, has developed guidelines for the responsible use of generative AI in research. These guidelines aim to provide researchers, research organizations, and funding bodies with a framework for utilizing generative AI ethically and effectively.

Key Principles:

The guidelines are built upon key principles drawn from existing frameworks, including the European Code of Conduct for Research Integrity and guidelines on trustworthy AI developed by the High-Level Expert Group on AI. These principles encompass reliability, honesty, respect, and accountability throughout the research process.

Recommendations for Researchers:

1. Maintain Responsibility: Researchers are ultimately accountable for the integrity of content generated using AI tools and must remain critical of the output’s limitations and potential biases.
2. Transparency: Researchers should transparently disclose the use of generative AI tools in their research processes, detailing how they were utilized and acknowledging any limitations or biases.
3. Privacy and Intellectual Property: Researchers must exercise caution when sharing sensitive information with AI tools, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations and respecting intellectual property rights.
4. Legal Compliance: Researchers should adhere to national, EU, and international legislation, especially concerning intellectual property rights and personal data protection.
5. Continuous Learning: Researchers should stay updated on best practices for using generative AI tools and undergo regular training to maximize their benefits.
6. Sensitive Activities: Researchers should refrain from substantially using generative AI in sensitive activities that could impact other researchers or organizations, such as peer review processes.

Recommendations for Research Organizations:

1. Supportive Environment: Research organizations should promote, guide, and support the responsible use of generative AI in research activities, providing training and guidelines for ethical usage.
2. Monitoring and Oversight: Organizations should actively monitor the development and use of generative AI systems within their institutions, providing feedback, and guidance to researchers.
3. Integration of Guidelines: Research organizations should integrate generative AI guidelines into their existing research practices and ethics guidelines, fostering open discussions and consultations with stakeholders.
4. Local Governance: Whenever possible, organizations should implement locally hosted or cloud-based generative AI tools that they govern themselves, ensuring data protection and confidentiality.

Recommendations for Research Funding Organizations:

1. Promotion and Support: Funding organizations should promote and support the responsible use of generative AI in research, aligning funding instruments with ethical guidelines and legal requirements.
2. Internal Usage: Funding organizations should transparently and responsibly use generative AI in their internal processes, ensuring fairness and confidentiality.
3. Transparency from Applicants: Funding organizations should request transparency from applicants regarding their use of generative AI, facilitating ways for applicants to report its usage.
4. Monitoring and Training: Funding organizations should monitor and actively participate in the evolving landscape of generative AI, funding training programs for ethical and responsible AI use in research.

The responsible use of generative AI in research requires a collaborative effort from researchers, research organizations, and funding bodies. By adhering to ethical guidelines and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, we can harness the potential of AI to advance scientific knowledge while mitigating potential risks and safeguarding research integrity.

More at EU Website

Join us in advancing open science principles worldwide! As per the UNESCO Recommendation on Open Science, adopted during the General Conference’s 41st session on November 23, 2021, we invite you to actively participate in shaping the future of scientific collaboration and accessibility.

Member States, committed to transparency and inclusivity, will be convening for regular progress updates every four years. We encourage your engagement and input as we collectively work towards realizing the transformative potential of open science.

To facilitate our collaborative efforts, we have established:

1. Open Science Steering Committee Meetings: These sessions provide a platform for strategic oversight and guidance, ensuring coherence in our global endeavors. Join us for our upcoming meetings on April 4th, May 17th, April 30th, May 15th, and June 3rd, 2024, as we track progress and address challenges together.
2. Intersectoral Task Team Gatherings: Comprising experts from diverse sectors, these meetings offer comprehensive oversight and guidance to advance open science initiatives. Your participation is vital in ensuring a holistic approach to our endeavors. Join us for our scheduled meetings on April 4th, April 17th, April 30th, May 15th, and June 3rd, 2024.

Your involvement is crucial as we implement the UNESCO Recommendation on Open Science. Together, we can create a more accessible and collaborative scientific landscape.

Furthermore, we invite you to explore our ongoing efforts through:

• Open Science Working Groups: Engage with experts in critical areas such as capacity building, policy development, funding mechanisms, infrastructures, and monitoring frameworks. You can contribute by attending scheduled meetings or registering for upcoming ones.
• Global Open Science Partnership: Join us in fostering technical advice and guidance, facilitating collaboration, and knowledge exchange.
• Toolkit Development: Contribute to the development of practical resources for Member States and stakeholders, ensuring effective implementation of open science principles.

Your participation is essential in shaping the future of open science. Let’s work together to realize its full potential and ensure equitable access to scientific knowledge for all.

For more information and to register for meetings, please visit UNESCO Open Science Meetings Portal. Together, let’s embrace the culture and practice of open science for a brighter future.

We look forward to your active involvement!