Open science is a set of principles and practices that aim to make scientific research from all fields accessible to everyone for the benefits of scientists and society as a whole. Open science is about making sure not only that scientific knowledge is accessible but also that the production of that knowledge itself (data and documents or documentation) is inclusive, equitable and sustainable.
Open science has the potential of making the scientific process more transparent, inclusive and democratic.
Open science:
FedOSC is a federal initiative to promote Open Science and FAIR data practices within the Belgian federal scientific community. Launched on April 1, 2024, the project aims to transform the landscape of scientific research at the federal level.
Developing Open Science policy proposals at the federal level
FedOSC will work on creating a comprehensive policy framework to guide Open Science practices across Federal Scientific Institutions (FSIs). This will ensure a consistent approach to data sharing, open access publishing, and research transparency.
Developing a technical solution compatible for integration into the European Open Science Cloud (EOSC)
FedOSC aims to align Belgian federal research infrastructure with the broader European Open Science ecosystem. Readiness for future EOSC integration will enable seamless data exchange and collaboration with European partners.
Creating necessary tools for Open Science at Belnet
The project will focus on developing and improving digital infrastructure and tools essential for Open Science. This includes enhancing existing platforms and creating new ones to support data management, sharing, and collaboration.
Support Federal Scientific Institutions in adopting a more strategic approach to Open Science
The project will produce an inventory of the existing research data in the federal institutes, provide guidance, training, and resources to help FSIs develop and implement their own Open Science strategies, tailored to their specific needs and research domains.
Enhancing research quality and efficiency
Open Science practices, such as data sharing and open methodologies, allow for better validation of research results and reduce duplication of efforts. This leads to more robust and reliable scientific outcomes.
Increasing the visibility and impact of Belgian research
By making research outputs more accessible, FedOSC will help amplify the reach and impact of Belgian federal research on the global stage.
Fostering innovation and collaboration
Open Science breaks down barriers between disciplines and institutions, encouraging cross-sector collaborations and accelerating innovation in both academia and industry.
Aligning with European Open Science initiatives
FedOSC ensures that Belgian federal research aligns with and contributes to broader European Open Science efforts, strengthening Belgium's position in the European Research Area.
FedOSC focuses on key actions to support Open Science:
Evolving DMPOnline.be for better data management planning
The project will enhance DMPOnline.be (What is DMPOnline.be?), making it easier for researchers to create, share, and implement comprehensive data management plans that adhere to FAIR principles.
Upgrading Orfeo, the open access repository
Improvements to Orfeo will make it more user-friendly and interoperable, facilitating easier deposit and discovery of open access publications from FSIs.
Establishing an RDM metadata/service catalogue
This catalogue will provide a centralized resource for discovering and accessing research data and services across FSIs, enhancing the findability and reusability of research outputs.
Implementing a PID (Persistent Identifier) infrastructure
A robust PID system will ensure that research outputs are uniquely and persistently identifiable, supporting long-term access and proper citation of data and publications.
Organizing Open Science training for researchers
Comprehensive training programs will be developed to equip researchers with the skills and knowledge needed to implement Open Science practices effectively in their work.
Supporting the definition of Open Science-related policies
FedOSC will assist in developing clear, actionable policies that promote and govern Open Science practices across FSIs, ensuring consistency and best practices.
Specific milestones for each action are currently being defined and will be updated as the project progresses.
FSIs and researchers can actively participate in shaping the future of Open Science in Belgium:
Engage with FedOSC data stewards
Data stewards will be available to provide guidance on data management practices and help researchers implement Open Science principles in their work.
You may reach the data stewards collectively trough the address fedosc@belnet.be
Attend training sessions and webinars
Various training opportunities will be offered in the course of 2025 to help researchers develop their skills in data management, open publishing, and other aspects of Open Science.
Provide feedback on tools and services
User input is crucial for the development of effective Open Science tools. Researchers are encouraged to share their experiences and suggestions for improvement.
For more information or to get involved, contact: fedosc@belnet.be
Data: Data is information that is in a machine-readable format. This might include tables, numbers or texts, as well as images and other digital formats.
Data management: Data management encompasses all the activities involved in collecting, processing, storing, sharing and using data within an organisation.
FAIR: FAIR is a series of principles for research data to be Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable.
Open Data: Data that can be freely used, reused and redistributed by anyone under the conditions of the license under which the data is published. The main difference between FAIR data and Open Data is the accessibility. FAIR data may define a procedure required to gain access, such as secure authentication, or a manual request for access, while Open data is accessible to everybody in the world,
Open Science: A movement to make scientific research and data available, more transparent and accessible so that everyone can contribute and reuse it.
Repository: A repository is an archive for collecting, preserving and disseminating research and research data. Different types of repositories exist, such as actively curated and non-curated repositories, discipline-specific or cross-discipline repositories, institutional, national, and supra-national repositories.
Research data: Research data is any information collected, observed, generated or created for research purposes. It may take different forms like a document, questionnaires, experimental data, structured data such as tabular data, computer algorithms, video, samples, etc.
How will FedOSC affect my current research practices?
FedOSC aims to enhance your research by providing tools and support for better data management and sharing. It will introduce resources and best practices that complement and improve existing workflows, rather than disrupt them.
How does FedOSC align with European Open Science initiatives?
FedOSC is designed to create a readiness to integrate seamlessly with the European Open Science Cloud (EOSC). This alignment ensures that future Belgian federal research not only meets European standards but also contributes to and benefits from the broader European Open Science ecosystem.
Marc Vanholsbeeck
Federale, interfederale en internationale coördinatie
