Reflecting on the DANS Open Day 2026

17 June 2026

Last week, we welcomed researchers, data professionals, policy makers, and infrastructure experts to the DANS Open Day. It was encouraging to see such a diverse audience come together to exchange knowledge and experiences around research data management, FAIR data and open science. We were also pleased to welcome participants from France and Spain, highlighting the international relevance of many of the themes explored throughout the day.

The programme focused on practical challenges and developments in research data management, ranging from data curation and preservation to metadata, data policy, sensitive data, and of course AI. Rather than traditional lectures, the sessions were designed to encourage discussion and participation. Feedback from attendees showed particular appreciation for this interactive approach, which created space for exchanging perspectives and learning from one another’s experiences.

One session that stood out for many participants was the LEGO workshop on interoperability. Participants enjoyed the interactive format, and the workshop provided a clear and engaging metaphor for how interoperability works in practice.

The keynote on artificial intelligence and research data management was another highlight of the day. Participants valued the balanced perspective on opportunities and challenges, as well as the practical suggestions thatcould be applied directly in their own work. The presentation generated thoughtful questions and provided plenty of food for thougth that participants could take back to their own organisations.

Networking remained an important part of the Open Day. Throughout the day, participants connected with colleagues from different organisations and disciplines, shared experiences and discussed common challenges. Many visitors also took the opportunity to speak directly with DANS experts about topics relevant to their own research and data practices.

The slides from the sessions are now available here.

We would like to thank everyone who attended, contributed to the discussions and shared their expertise. Your engagement helped create an open and constructive atmosphere and made our Open Day a valuable opportunity for learning, exchange and collaboration.