Research Data Curation Network Norway

Abstract

Our poster presents the background, current work, and future plans for the Research Data Curation Network Norway, established through a project funded by the National Library of Norway. 

1. Why do research data need to be curated by curators in the first place?

Research needs to be reproducible so that findings may be tested and verified or disputed. This requires data to be available and correctly understood. Trained curators will carefully assess the quality of metadata and other information about the data, and suggest improvements where needed, before the data are archived. The Norwegian Research Data Curation Network will support its members in the curation task, to optimize and FAIRify archived and published research data.

2. Why do we need a national network focusing on curation of research data?

Curation of research data can at times be straight forward. But quite often the curator role can be challenging and include tasks that involves complex problem solving. This is where a network of curators will be most valuable. Questions may be raised and discussed among all the network members, issues may be elaborated through organised webinars and get-together-sessions, and guidelines may be developed and published. This will not least be highly valued by curators at smaller institutions with just one or a few curators.

3. Why do the efforts within the network need to be coordinated?

To maximize the benefits from a network of curators, tasks may be distributed among the network members. This includes working groups with dedicated tasks and organising webinars and (regular) meetings within the network. To achieve this, efforts need to be coordinated. 

The Research Data Curation Network Norway will furthermore be a node in The Research Data Alliance (RDA), and also within EOSC. Our Network will be able to utilize the work and the knowledge these organisations hold, if the Network is well organised and coordinated.

4. What are our plans for the future?

We need to agree upon, and establish an organisational model, including a Governing Board and regulations including how to secure a sustainable financing model for the Network, to be presented at a first General Assembly. Membership will be available to individual curators in Norwegian Higher Education and research institutions. At the same time, institutional membership will likely be needed, in order to commit institutions to support the Network financially (e.g. through membership fees) and also to form an organisational fundament for the Network. 

But first of all, we need to spread the word about the Network, and make sure everyone working with research data curation will see the benefit and join the Network.