Launch of DCU Open Research Website

The new DCU Strategy 2023-2028 sets out a clear ambition to increase the impact of DCU research, in both international academic debates and in social, economic and cultural outcomes.  While there are many aspects to this, an important avenue to increasing impact is to ensure our research is more open and accessible. Open research practices can be applied across all stages of the research lifecycle. 

The DCU Open Research website was developed to provide a single access point to information on practices and supports for the DCU community. It's development was informed by the recent staff survey on Open Research.

Open Research Survey

A DCU Open Research Survey was conducted in September 2023 with the aim of gaining insight into the current knowledge, practices and needs in relation to Open Research amongst all researchers at DCU.  The survey findings highlighted the need to further raise awareness of Open Research practices and principles and to enhance and promote the supports available to the DCU research community. This directly informed the development of the Open Research Website and will direct the work of the DCU Open Research Taskforce. 

A presentation of the survey findings was delivered at the DCU Open Research Landscapes event on 31st October 2023.  The slides presented on the day and a short summary report are available to view.

Open Research Website

We are delighted to launch the DCU Open Research website. The website provides a single point of access for information and support on Open Research for DCU staff and students. 

Open Research incorporates openness at all stages of research, including open access for research outputs, FAIR data, responsible metrics, open software and citizen science.  The website offers practical guidance on these topics, alongside institutional, national and international context and literature on the move towards open. Content will continue to be developed and added over the coming months.

It was developed by the Library, with input from Research Support, and is a key action of the DCU Open Research Taskforce. The Taskforce itself represents a commitment in DCU to develop and support a culture of Open Research in the University and to promote openness across the research lifecycle. Open Research aligns with the aim of the University’s strategic plan to advance DCU’s research reputation, to ensure that its research reaches a global audience, and with the University’s mission of transforming lives and society.

If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact Liam O'Dwyer (Open Research Librarian) at liam.odwyer@dcu.ie or Isabel Hidalgo (Research Information and Analytics Officer) at isabel.hidalgo@dcu.ie.