Open Science is a new approach that is becoming increasingly important. It aims to make all components of the scientific process openly accessible and re-usable. Open access to pre-determined hypotheses and analysis pipelines, scientific publications, research data and scientific software enable a transparent research process and improved quality assurance. By joining the German Reproducibility Network (GRN), the Central Institute of Mental Health (CIMH) underlines its support for the Open Science approach. The CIMH is one of the first institutional members of the GRN and is helping to shape the further development of Open Science in clinical research.
Promoting transparency in research
The GRN was founded in 2021 and is dedicated to promoting open and reproducible research. It is modelled on the UK Reproducibility Network (UKRN), which has helped shape open and reproducible research in the UK since 2018. The aim of the GRN is to promote trust in science and the transparency of research in Germany, and to this end the GRN works with scientists, institutions and other stakeholders (third-party funders, publishers and professional societies). The GRN promotes continuing education, develops and disseminates working standards, researches science itself (meta-science) and works with the various actors on solutions for robust science.
Infrastructure, knowledge and incentives for Open Science
The CIMH and the GRN are working together to improve the quality, robustness, reproducibility and transparency of research. To this end, the CIMH’s Open Science Office has developed an Open Science Strategy that will combine and strengthen the institute’s existing efforts. The strategy addresses the three pillars of infrastructure, knowledge and incentives for Open Science and thereby contributes to improved quality assurance. Through its membership in the GRN, the CIMH helps shape developments in the field of Open Science. In doing so, the CIMH can benefit from the exchange with the other members of the GRN and contribute its own expertise to the discussion.
Contact:
Open Science Office of the Central Institute of Mental Health