ForSci Repository Requirements Gathering

In 2017 Jisc commissioned a process to assess the need for, and feasibility of, a subject-based repository for research and data. The subject was initially formulated as forensic science, though the repository could also include other research or data related to the criminal justice system. The repository was planned to hold research and data produced by undergraduate and postgraduate university students, much of which, in this field, is good quality. The name chosen for the repository was ForSci.

The process was overseen by a steering group made up of forensic science experts and Jisc staff, and supported by an independent researcher. The group decided to employ an iterative process of research and discussion. To this end, they set up an online survey and a discussion workshop.

The online survey attracted 100 responses, with a good spread between males and females, academics and forensic scientists, those who teach and those who don't. Two-thirds of responses came from England, with a surprising one-quarter from around the world. Over 90% of respondents said they would value the proposed repository. Full details of the survey findings are in appendix 2.

Analysis of the survey data revealed six unanswered questions about how the repository should be designed and managed. A workshop was held in Manchester to resolve these questions. It was attended by 18 forensic science experts from academia, the criminal justice system, and the private sector, as well as staff from Jisc and the independent researcher. The full list is in appendix 4.

The workshop discussions resolved most points, though there are still a number of key decisions to be made during the design process. These are recorded in the 'Next Steps' section of this report.

One key problem identified during the workshop is that forensic science doesn't fall within the remit of any particular research funding council or HEFCE Unit of Assessment in the forthcoming Research Excellence Framework (REF). It would be worth lobbying RCUK to make funding contingent on sharing findings and data, and continuing discussions with HEFCE for future assessments of research.

This project has identified both a mandate and an initial road map for the creation of the ForSci research and data repository.