Joining Networks in the World of Open Science

Digitalization has embedded itself into research processes, often in many revolutionary ways. Currently, when most data collection, analyses and reporting have now been digitalized, the new era of the second digital revolution of science and research calls for the open distribution of research outputs. In many ways, open science – or its expectations – deeply challenges the consolidated roles of researchers, publishers and research organisations. Research funding agencies, such as the Academy of Finland, aim for high quality and impact in science and research. Considering the many benefits open science can provide, it is not surprising that an increasing number of research funding agencies are establishing open science policies. It is, however, essential to anticipate the potential impacts of decisions in different research fields and on the research system as a whole. In order to be successful, actions need to be adjusted to the national and international situation in co-operation with formal and informal networks. Cohesive networks are needed for coordinated actions and support whereas bridging networks can provide new approaches and novel information. For instance, even if it is difficult reliably to trace Open Access articles published from work supported by a funder, co-operation with research libraries can help to solve this problem. On the other hand, the requirements set by research funders for researchers to make their research data and methods freely available increase pressure on research organisations to enhance their culture and services for open science. Joining formal and informal networks can provide a strong basis for the development and implementation of open science.

Professor Riitta Maijala, Executive Director of the Academy of Finland, leads on  thematic research funding, including strategic research funding and Academy programmes.  Before joining the Academy of Finland, she led the Science Policy Section of the Department of Higher Education and Science Policy in Finland’s Ministry of Education and Culture. She was responsible for preparing and implementing strategies for science, research and innovation policies and the use of scientific knowledge. She has also worked as a researcher, lecturer, professor and in leading positions in scientific and decision-making organisations such as the European Food Safety Authority, the Finnish Food Safety Authority, the Finnish Veterinary and Food Research Institute and the University of Helsinki. She has chaired and been a member of many national and international groups. Currently, she chairs the Strategic Steering Group for the Open Science and Research Initiative and is Vice-Chair of the National Committee oResearch Infrastructures.