University approaches to Citizen Science in the transition to Open Science

The European University Association and Open Air organize a joint online Workshop on citizen science "University approaches to Citizen Science in the transition to Open Science - Institutional strategies for creating an open and inclusive environment for research" next december 9th and 10th.

The UOC Vice-President for Globalization and Cooperation, Pastora Martínez Samper, will moderate the round table “The Barcelona case of Citizen Science practices”,  that will take place on December 10 at 10.05 a.m. (UTC + 1). The speakers will be the UOC researcher Isabel Ruiz-Mallén, the UB researcher Josep Perelló and the Responsible of Science and Innovation Programs at Institut de Cultura de Barcelona, Diana Escobar.

About the Citizen Science

The potential of Citizen Science is high on the agenda in the discussion on the future of academic research. The European Commission’s Communication “A new ERA for Research and Innovation”, published in September 2020, states that “[...] the engagement of citizens, local communities and civil society will [help] achieve greater social impact and increased trust in science.” Citizens can contribute in diverse ways, ranging from data collection over data analysis to co-designing projects, and thereby bring academic research and its outcomes closer to society.

However, Citizen Science also accentuates ethical and legal questions about ownership of the research process and outcomes, and poses challenges in terms of safeguarding research quality. Addressing these challenges and using the opportunities of Citizen Science will require universities to take the lead and consider the place of Citizen Science within their institutional strategies, as well as the support they offer to research staff.

Engaging in inclusive and transparent science, Citizen Science and Open Science are becoming increasingly intertwined. Currently, Citizen Science is described by the European Commission as “both an aim and enabler of Open Science”.

This joint workshop will discuss themes around institutional support for Citizen Science and offers an opportunity to transfer and share knowledge. The aim is to exchange experiences, lessons learnt, and explore common challenges. To support Citizen Science, the online workshop will discuss tools, guidelines and good practices from Open Science experiences as well. Participating universities will have the opportunity to share expertise, coordinate efforts and exchange advice on services, tools and legal and ethical issues.