New training platform for data professionals: RDNL is building a strong community

To strengthen the knowledge and skills of data stewards and other data professionals, RDNL and Open Science NL are setting up a national training and community platform for this professional group over the next four years. The kick-off meeting of the project took place on 30 January.

The Research Data Netherlands (RDNL) consortium, consisting of DANS, SURF, 4TU.ResearchData and Health-RI, responded in 2024 to a call from Open Science NL to develop a platform around the role of data stewards. After approval of their proposal, the parties signed a contract of EUR 4.8 million in December 2024.

Action plan for data stewards

Datastewards deal with the management, organisation and quality of research data and help researchers process data FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable). To strengthen the community of datastewards in the Netherlands and contribute to the transition to open science, RDNL has drawn up an action plan.

Tailor-made learning environment

RDNL is working on a clear curriculum and learning paths for data stewards. Through the platform, data professionals can easily discover which step in their development best suits them. In addition, badges will be introduced, making achieved competences demonstrable for employers and clients.

Future-proof and openly accessible

All teaching materials are made available under an open licence, so that they remain widely applicable. RDNL manages the platform during the project period and is working on a sustainable model for the future. This will be further developed in cooperation with a Stakeholder Forum and relevant partners.

The Netherlands as an example

Data stewardship in the Netherlands is already well developed, with active communities and strong initiatives. Yet in practice, data professionals still experience a lot of fragmentation and duplication. The new platform should bring together training supply and demand and provide a central point for knowledge exchange. International developments will also be included, so that the Netherlands continues to set an example in the field of open science and research data management.

Want to know more about the project and the four work packages? Read more on the Open Science NL website.