OA5: Skills, Training, Rewards, Recognition & Upskilling

Join us at the EOSC Winter School for a dynamic programme that integrates Skills, Training, Rewards, Recognition, and Upskilling, with a special focus on Research Assessment.

This event aligns with the EOSC’s efforts to promote Open Science and develop a skilled scientific community. Gain valuable insights from Task Force Co-chairs on essential topics like Upskilling Countries, Data Stewardship, and Researcher Engagement & Adoption. The programme includes interactions with leading projects such as Skills4EOSC, EOSC4Cancer, and EuroScienceGateway, showcasing the EU’s commitment to creating targeted training programmes and a FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) Open Science training ecosystem. This is a unique opportunity to enhance your training impact in the community, in line with EU and global initiatives in science and research. Our approach is in sync with the Multi-Annual Roadmap (MAR) and the Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA), ensuring that Open Science practices are integrated as the ‘new normal’ in scientific research and education. Join us to be part of this transformative movement in scientific training and research.

Approach

The program features interactive workshops, discussions. We aim to share best practices, experiences, and emerging strategies in engaging diverse target groups and communities within the EOSC ecosystem.

Objectives

  • To integrate and emphasize Skills, Training, Rewards, Recognition, and Upskilling within the EOSC framework.
  • To highlight the importance of Research Assessment in the context of EOSC.
  • To align and integrate past, present, and future activities for comprehensive community engagement.

Outcomes

  • Enhanced integration and understanding of these elements in EOSC projects, aligning with EOSC’s diverse short-term, medium-term, and long-term objectives.
  • Development of enhanced strategies for community engagement and collaboration in EOSC, focusing on skill development and learning from shared experiences.
<span class=”uppercase”><span style=”text-decoration: underline;” class=”ek-underline”><sup>Tuesday afternoon</sup></span></span><br><span class=”uppercase”><strong>A Journey of Learning & <br>Interaction</strong></span>

This session is structured as a comprehensive and interactive journey, designed to provide participants with a deep dive into the current state and future directions of the EOSC in relation to skills, training, and research assessment.

The session will utilize a blend of presentations, discussions, and interactive segments to engage participants actively. It aims to connect the dots between various initiatives and projects under the EOSC umbrella, focusing on how they align with the Multi-Annual Roadmap (MAR) and the Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA).

Objectives

  • To provide an overview of the MAR’s role in shaping EOSC’s strategic direction and its connection to current objectives.
  • To review and discuss the progress of Task Forces and various projects in alignment with MAR and SRIA objectives.
  • To explore the alignment of initiatives like Skills4EOSC, EOSC4Cancer, and the Galaxy Training Network (GTN) with the MAR objectives.
  • To discuss the significance of research assessment, accreditation, and recognition in the context of EOSC’s development.
  • To share best practices and experiences in engaging diverse target groups and communities within EOSC.

Outcomes

  • Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of how various EOSC initiatives contribute to the overarching goals of the MAR and SRIA.
  • Enhanced strategies for community engagement and collaboration in EOSC, focusing on skill development and learning from shared experiences.
  • Clear insights into the roles and adaptations of Competence Centres, the contributions of the GTN, and the significance of research assessment and accreditation in the EOSC ecosystem.
  • Identification of areas for further development, collaboration, and integration within the EOSC community.

A JOURNEY OF LEARNING & INTERACTION

Time: 14:00 – 17:30
Session Chairs: Celia van Gelder and Marialuisa Lavitrano 
Session rapporteur: Franciska de Jong

TimeslotActivityFormatModerator / FacilitatorContent – Participant Experience
14:00 – 14:10Introduction / Setting ContextPresentationMarialuisa LavitranoParticipants will gain an understanding of the MAR’s significance in the EOSC framework, setting a clear context for the session.
14:10 – 14:30Taking Stock Part 1 – TFsDiscussionCelia van Gelder, Franciska de JongInsight into how Task Forces are contributing to the MAR’s goals, fostering a comprehensive view of EOSC’s strategic progress.
14:30 – 14:50Taking Stock Part 2 – ProjectsDiscussionHelen ClareExposure to a range of EOSC projects, understanding their role in advancing the MAR’s objectives and impact on Open Science.
14:50 – 15:10Skills4EOSC – FAIR by design Methodology, MVS and future plansPresentationEmma LazzeriLearning about Skills4EOSC’s strategic alignment with MAR and innovative methodologies shaping Open Science.
15:10 – 15:30EOSC4CancerPresentationFotis E. PsomopoulosUnderstanding the specific application of Open Science in oncology within the MAR framework.
15:30 – 16:00Coffee Break 
16:00 – 16:20EuroScienceGateway (Introduction to GTN)PresentationAnika Erxleben, Fotis E. PsomopoulosDiscovering GTN’s role in EOSC and how it supports the MAR’s vision for training in science.
16:20 – 16:40Taking Stock Part 3 – Training InfrastructureDiscussionAnika Erxleben, Fotis E. PsomopoulosInsights into the importance of training infrastructure for achieving the MAR’s goals in EOSC initiatives.
16:40 – 17:00Taking Stock Part 4 – Research AssessmentDiscussionHelen Clare, Fotis E. PsomopoulosUnderstanding the role of research assessment in the MAR and its implications for Open Science.
17:00 – 17:20Taking Stock Part 5 – AccreditationDiscussionEmma LazzeriLearning about the role of accreditation in validating Open Science skills within the MAR framework.
17:20 – 17:30Wrap UpSummaryCelia Van Gelder, Franciska de Jong, Mariauisa LavitranoA concise overview of the session’s key takeaways, providing clarity and direction for future engagement within the MAR framework.
<sup><span class=”uppercase”><span style=”text-decoration: underline;” class=”ek-underline”>Wednesday morning</span></span></sup><span class=”uppercase”><br><strong>Collaborative Excellence in FAIR </strong></span><br><span class=”uppercase”><strong>& Open Science Training</strong></span>

This session is designed to provide a comprehensive exploration of FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) and Open Science skills, focusing on the integration and enhancement of these skills within the EOSC framework.

The session will begin with a recap of the outcomes from the previous session, followed by in-depth discussions and workshops. Participants will engage with Skills4EOSC, EuroScienceGateway, and EOSC4Cancer, delving into the FAIR by design methodologies, training catalogues, and the Open Science Assessment Framework – GraspOS. The session will also cover the role of accreditations in validating competencies and the collaborative efforts of various projects and task forces.

Objectives

  • To discuss and understand FAIR by design methodologies in training and their alignment with EOSC’s vision.
  • To explore and align training activities with Skills4EOSC’s methodologies and the broader EOSC framework.
  • To develop strategies for improving the accessibility and longevity of training catalogues.
  • To foster collaboration for creating a unified, accessible training catalogue ecosystem.
  • To share and benefit from emerging best practices, resources, and tools developed by various projects and task forces.

Outcomes

  • Participants will gain a deeper understanding of FAIR and Open Science skills, along with the methodologies and strategies to integrate them into EOSC projects.
  • Ideas for a comprehensive and innovative approach to skill integration in INFRAEOSC projects, supporting the long-term vision of EOSC.
  • Enhanced awareness and strategies for maintaining relevant and accessible training resources, and for fostering effective engagement strategies within the EOSC ecosystem.

Collaborative Excellence in FAIR & Open Science Training

Time: 09:30 – 12:30
Session Chairs: Emma Lazzeri 
Session rapporteur: Franciska de Jong

TimeslotActivityFormatModerator / FacilitatorParticipant Experience
09:30 – 09:45Recap of Outcomes of yesterday’s sessionPresentationEmma Lazzeri, Franciska de JongParticipants will gain a consolidated understanding of the previous session’s discussions and outcomes.
09:45 – 10:15Dive in Skills4EOSC Competence CentersDiscussionEmma LazzeriInsight into the practical application of FAIR principles in training and the role of co*mpetence centers.
10:15 – 11:00Training Catalogue WorkWorkshopHelen Clare / Celia van GelderHands-on experience in developing and using training catalogues, enhancing skills in resource creation and management.
11:00 – 11:15Break[Break]A chance for participants to network, reflect, and prepare for the next segment.
11:15 – 11:30Task Force Joint Paper on Engagement StrategiesDiscussionMarialuisa LavitranoExposure to collaborative strategies for engaging researchers in open science and training.
11:30 – 11:45GTN as Infrastructure for Trainees and TrainersPresentation / WorkshopAnika ErxlebenInsights into how GTN can be leveraged as a training resource, benefiting both learners and educators.
11:45 – 12:30Open SessionOpen DiscussionEmma LazzeriA dynamic and interactive opportunity for participants to actively engage in discussions, share diverse perspectives, and contribute to generating a wealth of ideas and insights. This session is designed to maximize input and stimulate extensive discussion among attendees, with specific examples like Skills4EOSC Competence Centers to guide the conversation.
<sup><span class=”uppercase”><span style=”text-decoration: underline;” class=”ek-underline”>Wednesday afternoon</span></span></sup><br><span class=”uppercase”><strong>Sustaining the Momentum </strong></span><br><span class=”uppercase”><strong>in EOSC Training Initiatives</strong></span>

This session is dedicated to sustaining and enhancing the momentum of skills and training initiatives within the EOSC framework.

It will focus on strategies for embedding sustainable training practices into existing structures, such as Competence Centers and Research Infrastructures, and will explore the role of research assessment and accreditations in ensuring the sustainability, relevance, and recognition of training activities. 

The session will include a recap of previous discussions, followed by interactive discussions and workshops aimed at developing concrete plans for future collaboration and sustainability.

Objectives

  • To discuss and develop strategies for embedding training into existing structures like Research Infrastructures and/or upcoming Competence Centers.
  • To clarify and reinforce the concepts of sustainability and relevance in training initiatives.
  • To utilize research assessment and accreditations as tools for sustainable and relevant training.
  • To develop onboarding procedures for new communities and their training demands.
  • To facilitate ongoing collaboration and connection among EOSC projects and task forces.

Outcomes

  • A framework for sustainable training initiatives, aligning with the EOSC’s vision for 2027 and beyond.
  • Establishment of standards and frameworks for accreditation in open science training, aligning with Skills4EOSC’s methodologies.
  • Tangible recommendations and action plans for different stakeholder groups to ensure continued collaboration and sustainability in EOSC training initiatives.

Sustaining the Momentum in EOSC Training Initiatives

Time: 15:00 – 19:00
Session Chair: Helen Clare
Session rapporteur: Franciska de Jong

TimeslotActivityFormatModerator / FacilitatorContent – Participant Experience
15:00 – 15:30Recap of Outcomes of Session 2PresentationHelen Clare / Emma LazzeriParticipants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the progress made and the context for the afternoon’s discussions.
15:30 – 16:00Wrap-Up & Intro by Projects and TFsDiscussionHelen ClareOpportunity to learn about diverse initiatives and future directions, fostering a sense of continuity and collective purpose.
16:00 – 17:00Future PlansDiscussionMarialuisa LavitranoEngaging in strategic planning and contributing to the shaping of future EOSC training initiatives.
17:00 – 17:30Coffee Break[Break]
17:30 – 18:15Ensuring Connection and CommunicationWorkshopHelen Clare / Celia van GelderActive participation in developing strategies to maintain connections and collaborations beyond the life of current projects.
18:15 – 19:00Writing Up Outcomes & RecommendationsCollaborative WorkEmma Lazzeri (Skills4EOSC)

Franciska de Jong
Collaboratively creating a tangible output that encapsulates the session’s insights and recommendations for future action.
<span class=”uppercase”><sup><span style=”text-decoration: underline;” class=”ek-underline”>Thursday morning</span></sup></span><br><span class=”uppercase”><strong>Wrap-up</strong></span>

Conclude your Winter School experience by reviewing all lessons learned in previous sessions and aligning with medium- and long-term objectives.

We will discuss important input for 2024-2026, contributions to the SRIA 2.0, and look beyond to 2027 to enhance the potential of the Horizon Europe EOSC-related projects.


Bios of the Skills, Training, Rewards, Recognition & Upskilling sub-committee

Projects

  • Emma Lazzeri (Skills4EOSC): Emma is the coordinator of Skills4EOSC, focusing on creating a Coordination Network of Competence Centres. She is a member of various Italian and European working groups in the Open Science field.
  • Sara di Giorgio (Skills4EOSC): Sara collaborates with GARR to promote the activity of Italian working groups on topics related to Open Science, FAIR data, and the European Open Science Cloud.
  • Anika Erxleben-Eggenhofer (EuroScienceGateway – ESG): Anika from the University of Freiburg is a member of the European Galaxy Team, works as a Galaxy trainer, is involved in the Galaxy Training Network (GTN) focusing on creating accessible training infrastructures for science, and is the project & communication manager of the ESG project.
  • Fotis Psomopoulos (EOSC4Cancer): Fotis is a Researcher at the Institute of Applied Biosciences (INAB), expert in software engineering, data mining algorithms, and bioinformatics. He is involved in integrating Open Science practices in oncology.

EOSC-A Task Forces

  • Celia van Gelder (Data Stewardship, Curricula and Career Paths): Celia  is Training Programme Manager of the Dutch Techcentre for Life Sciences (DTL), has a background in chemistry and bioinformatics and is experienced in managing bioinformatics and data stewardship training.
  • Helen Clare (Upskilling Countries): Helen has over 20 years of experience in training and staff development in the education sector and is co-chair of the EOSC Task Force on Upskilling Countries.
  • Franciska de Jong (Researcher Engagement & Adoption): Franciska is a full professor of e-Research for the Humanities and a senior advisor for CLARIN ERIC. 

EOSC-A Board of Directors

Marialuisa Lavitrano: Marialuisa is a professor of Pathology and director of the Molecular Medicine Unit at the University of Milano-Bicocca. She is also the vice-president of the EOSC Association.

Coordination & Support

Edith Euan Diaz (EOSC Focus Project): Edith holds a PhD in Physics and has professional experience in the Public, Private and Non-Profit sectors. She is a Senior Coordinator in EOSC-A and supports the sub-program committee to deliver an impactful session. She is known for her enthusiasm for innovation, blending science, tech, business, and people, with extensive knowledge in innovation management within the scientific community.