'My most cited paper, I must honestly admit, is not my most brilliant work. But thanks to the accompanying open software, it has become pretty much the standard in the field. Everyone cites our paper because of that software - without it, it would never have had such an impact,' says Tom Heskes, professor of Data Science and vice-dean of research at FNWI. ‘Open Science is incredibly important.’
What exactly do we mean by Open Science?
'Open Science is an approach to research in which knowledge, data and results are shared publicly as early as possible, allowing everyone - researchers and society alike – to contribute to and benefit from it. This way of thinking is intertwined with the entire research process. With the Radboud Open Science Programme, however, we will focus specifically on four pillars over the coming years: open access publishing, responsible managing of data and software, citizen science and open education.'
Open Science has been on the agenda of the European Commission and others since 2010. Why is it still not the norm in our research and education?
'The Netherlands is an international frontrunner in Open Science. Dutch universities collaborate closely in this area and the government invests in its development. Many countries are not nearly as advanced. At our university, there are already several successful Open Science initiatives, particularly in open access and data management. Some researchers have been working on and with Open Science practices for years. We have our own Data Repository and an open access Radboud University Press. So, we are not starting from scratch.
'At the same time, there are still closed cultures in some disciplines that we need to break through. New generations of researchers and teachers can play an important role in this, but culture change takes time. Policy obstacles also slow down progress: although we encourage Open Science, these efforts are still not sufficiently recognised in career opportunities and funding.'
We aim for as much openness as possible, but where there are valid reasons to keep something closed, that should remain an option
'In addition, the needs differ between disciplines. In the science faculty, for instance, nearly all articles are published open access, while in the humanities this is more challenging, given the higher proportion of books. Fundamental research is less suited to citizen science, and medical data require strict privacy safeguards. We aim for as much openness as possible, but where there are valid reasons to keep something closed, that should remain an option. The investment in Open Science pays off - not only for science but, and we should emphasise this more often, also for the individual researcher'.
How so?
'That's how you achieve the greatest impact. If others can use your findings, data, software, your citation count and visibility increase. Sharing data and results creates opportunities for new interdisciplinary projects. You also avoid duplication of effort. I think that in the future, researchers who do not practise Open Science will fade into obscurity.’
What would you say to researchers who worry that Open Science will harm the quality of their research or their career prospects?
'They’re welcome to explain to me why they think that. Because I don't believe it’s true. I think it enhances the quality of your research. I think - if we’re being honest - the fear often stems from not wanting to lose a competitive edge. Of course, I understand the reluctance to share everything from early on, but deliberately withholding information to maintain an advantage isn’t morally justifiable in my view. After all, we are here to advance science. Let your advantage be in your experience, not in what you keep to yourself.’
What role can the Radboud Open Science Programme play?
'First and foremost, the programme wants to encourage people to think about Open Science. It’s about inspiring, informing and sharing good examples so that, step by step, we all become more aware of the possibilities. We’re also working on practical solutions and making it easier to find support through working groups that focus on different themes.'
After all, we are here to advance science. Let your advantage be in your experience, not in what you keep to yourself
'At Radboud University, we’re already making good progress. But the success of Open Science depends on broad commitment. We need to energise the movement, particularly in disciplines where Open Science is still less established. Open Science will get a boost if we all get behind it. Join the Open Science Community Nijmegen, seek help, and share your experiences. Everyone is welcome to contribute and participate.'