Abstract

This interactive session explores the role(s) RMAs assume in Open Science, the specific knowledge RMAs bring to Open Science, and the skills and support RMAs need to succeed in Open Science roles.

Open Science is (becoming) the new norm. Increasing number of international agreements and recommendations call for Open Science in the research and innovation space (e.g. UNESCO Recommendations on Open Science). Countries are adopting national open science policies that add to policies and mandates by funders, publishers and research-performing organizations. This quickly changing landscape requires constant monitoring, interpreting, and action by research-performing organizations and other stakeholders in the research and innovation space. Academic/research libraries, IT services as well as emerging services such as data stewardship services are assuming clear roles and receive recognition by stakeholders in the Open Science landscape. The role of RMAs in Open Science remains, however, less defined. And this despite RMAs engaging in Open Science roles ever more frequently, as evidenced by increasing number of presentations at recent EARMA annual conferences and the new Exploratory Group to establish an Open Science Thematic Group within EARMA.

This interactive session explores the roles RMAs have already assumed in Open Science, considers the knowledge RMAs can bring to Open Science roles, and discusses the skills and support RMAs need to succeed in Open Science roles.

The interactive session starts with 3 lightning talks by RMAs in Open Science roles. Audience will be immediately engaged via MentiMeter in-between the lightning talks. The lightening talks are delivered by:
1. Nuria Benítez, Institutional Strategy and Development Officer, ICN2 Barcelona (Spain)
2. Tadeu Fernando Nogueira, Senior Advisor in Research and Development, Nord University (Norway)
3. Daniel Spichtinger, Research Policy Analysist and Open Science Expert/ Grant Service & Policy, Ludwig Boltzmann Gesellschaft (Austria)

Following the lightening talks, a panel discussion moderated by Liise Lehtsalu (Research Support Officer, Eurac Research, Italy) considers the place of RMAs in Open Science. Audience members will be engaged in the panel discussion and can actively steer the conversation thanks to Slido (or similar).

Following learning outcomes are expected:
(i) RMAs perform a variety of roles in the Open Science space;
(ii) RMAs bring a distinct understanding of research funding and policy landscape to Open Science. This knowledge enriches the Open Science space and is key to implementing Open Science practices;
(iii) The continued professional development of RMAs, as well as recruitment of RMAs, must consider Open Science and the knowledge and skills RMAs need to engage in the Open Science space.
(iv) Introduction of the new Open Science Thematic Group within EARMA.

This session will be an opportunity to start a broader discussion within the profession to recognize and support RMAs in Open Science roles.