Two Key Reports Released
Research data stewardship is core enabler of engagement with FAIR and Open Data, effective data management and reduction in research waste. As the role of data steward grows in importance, the need for professionalisation and tailored learning pathways has become critical.
Over the past two years Sonraí has engaged in broad consultation across the research community. Conducting 21 interviews with experts representing data stewards, librarians, project managers, infrastructure providers, funders and researchers across career stages and domains. This has culminated in two reports linked below;
This report outlines a roadmap and provides recommendations for establishing data stewardship as a recognised and valued profession within the research landscape. It identifies several key barriers to progress including lack of a shared understanding of the role, insufficient training opportunities, inadequate funding and a general lack of awareness and recognition of data stewards. These challenges hinder the growth and impact of data stewardship which in turn affects research competitiveness, quality and the transition to an Open Research landscape.
The report proposes practical steps such as advocacy for the importance of data stewardship, fostering of key partnerships, adopting competency frameworks, development of accredited training, and formal recognition of the role of data stewards.
In conclusion the report emphasises that implementing these recommendations and building sustainable robust and effective data stewardship community are critical to achieving widespread adoption of of FAIR and Open Data across the research landscape.
The report on Data Stewardship Training examines the current training landscape and identifies the training and development needs across the research community. Key findings reveal a shortage of data stewards to meet growing demand, a fragmented training landscape, and a clear and pressing need for structured practical and discipline specific training. The report highlights two primary groups requiring support: new and existing data stewards as well as the broader research community.
Encouragingly, potential solutions were also identified including collaboration nationally and with European initiatives. A key recommendation is the development of accredited training, prioritising the development of a microcredential in data stewardship. Additionally, the report also emphasises the importance of peer learning, networking and community building to strengthen the emerging data stewardship community nationally
The report concludes that addressing the identified skills gap is essential for professionalising data stewardship and to ensuring Ireland remains competitive in an Open Research environment.
Sincere thanks to Sonraí project partners and those who participated in the interviews for their time and contributions.
This project has received funding from Ireland’s National Open Research Forum (NORF) under the 2022 Open Research Fund. NORF is funded by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) on behalf of the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research Innovation and Science (DFHERIS).
