Embedding Open Research at Source: The Open Research Support Unit at Technological University Dublin

The Open Research Support Unit (ORSU) at TU Dublin represents a pioneering model in institutional research support, uniquely positioned within the Research Office while operating in formal collaboration with Library Services. Established in 2023, ORSU is designed to embed open research practices at the source, providing researchers with tailored training, strategic guidance, and open research solutions, including data stewardship and management planning. This integrated approach ensures that open research is not an afterthought but a foundational element of project design and execution. 

ORSU’s strategic alignment with national and European initiatives, such as OSTrails and EOSC Ireland, positions TU Dublin at the forefront of Ireland’s transition to an open-first research ecosystem. By bridging operational and strategic domains, the unit supports compliance with funder mandates while fostering a culture of openness, transparency, and reproducibility across disciplines. 

This poster was presented at the EARMA Conference 2026 (May 05-07) in Utrecht (under the conference theme of “Empowering Research Managers and Administrators as Leaders for Impact") showcasing the unit’s structure, services, and impact to date, including examples of successful project integrations and national collaborations.