Open Access and Data Management Planning
Important
information
On October 17, 2024, the Institute of Physics of the Czech Academy of Sciences in Prague hosted an important workshop as part of the MERIT Training Academy. The event, which attracted around 70 participants, including international researchers from approximately 10 different research institutes, focused on key aspects of Open Access and Data Management Planning. The workshop was designed to support both national and international researchers based in the Central Bohemian Region.
The day began with insightful presentations and discussions led by experts in the field. Participants were introduced to the principles of Open Science, its importance in contemporary research, and the practical steps researchers can take to incorporate it into their work. Topics such as Open Access to publications, scholarly communication, and the financial options available to support open access, including the use of tokens, were thoroughly explored. Open Science requirements, including those under Horizon Europe and European Open Science Cloud (EOSC) initiatives, were also highlighted, along with discussions on open licenses for reuse of research outputs.
In the second half of the workshop, attention shifted to Research Data Management (RDM). Researchers learned about effective data management practices, including the importance of proper naming conventions, data formats, and the application of the FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable). The session also covered topics such as data publishing, reuse, archiving, and the development of a Data Management Plan (DMP). Practical tools such as the Data Stewardship Wizard were introduced to assist researchers in creating and maintaining their DMPs.
The workshop concluded with a networking dinner, offering participants the opportunity to connect with peers and experts, fostering collaboration across institutions. The event was widely regarded as a success, providing valuable insights and practical strategies for managing research data and advancing Open Science practices in alignment with international standards.
