RDA 27th Plenary Meeting (P27)

Date

06 – 08 Oct, 2026
Location
London, United Kingdom (in-person)

The Research Data Alliance 27th Plenary Meeting (P27) will take place in London, United Kingdom as an in-person event, 6-8 October 2026. P27 will be hosted by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the UK’s largest public research funder.

Under the theme ‘Shaping a global open research commons‘, RDA P27 will bring the global RDA community together to explore how we can collectively build a strong, connected, and sustainable open research ecosystem. Digital research infrastructures are essential to modern research and innovation. They connect researchers and innovators with the data, tools, computing resources, and skills needed to drive discovery. Read more about the theme

A statement from Hilary Hanahoe, RDA Secretary General

We recognise this format marks a significant shift from recent practice and may prevent some community members from participating – a decision we have not taken lightly.

Since 2020, RDA plenary meetings have been either fully virtual or hybrid, ensuring broad accessibility during and beyond the pandemic. P27 represents a deliberate pilot of a new approach: pairing an in-person plenary in the second half of each year with a fully virtual plenary in the first half. This model aims to balance the distinct benefits of both formats whilst ensuring equitable opportunities for engagement throughout the year. Read more

About UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)

UKRI brings together seven Research Councils (covering all domains), Research England and Innovate UK. It has a strong history of investment in open research and research infrastructure. UKRI has been supporting access to data since the 1960s through funded data services.

Rachel Bruce, Head of Open Research at UKRI, said:

“We are looking forward to welcoming delegates to London and celebrating UKRI’s involvement with the RDA and international research data community, as we work together to build a global research ecosystem where data is routinely shared and reused without barriers.”

Register for P27!

Secure your spot at RDA’s global data community event. Early Bird rates available until 23:59 UTC on 27 August 2026.

Programme

5 October 2026

RDA 27th Plenary Meeting

08:00-16:00

Co-located event ‘AI in Research: Understanding trust, federation, and the user experience’

From search assistants to co-scientist systems, AI is entering research faster than we can govern it. Join this event to tackle the UX, governance, and data readiness challenges head-on. Learn more.

Co-located event ‘Tools and Networks for Enhancing Long-term Data Preservation’

Hands-on training in trustworthy data preservation, FAIR principles, and EOSC practices. Plus the chance to join two brand-new expert networks. Just 50 places. Learn more.

6 October 2026

RDA 27th Plenary Meeting

07:45-16:00

Registration

Collect your name badge and get checked in for RDA P27. Come early to catch up with familiar faces, meet new RDA members, and settle in before the Opening session begins.

08:15-08:45

RDA for Newcomers session

New to the Research Data Alliance, or attending your first Plenary? Join this 30-minute informal session to get oriented. You will learn what RDA is, how it’s structured, and how to make the most of your three days at P27. Meet members of the RDA Secretariat team, get your questions answered, and walk away knowing exactly how to get involved.

09:00-10:30

RDA P27 Welcome Session. Research data: improving lives, advancing knowledge and driving growth

This session will kick off RDA P27 to welcome delegates to London. It will focus on the overarching importance of good research data management and sharing to our research ambitions – benefiting society and the economy while supporting collaboration, knowledge, and robust research.

View Programme

Who’s Attending P27?

Browse the list to find who to connect with in London.

Check here

Featured Sessions

Browse P27 programme by day and theme, and catch the new Ideas Pitch Sessions.

Explore sessions

Sponsorship and Exhibition Opportunities

Browse options

Confirmed Sponsors & Exhibitors

Explore further

Coming early or staying late for P27?

Don’t miss on attending one of six confrimed co-located events on 5 or 9 October. Check what’s on!

CHECK WHAT’S ON

Poster Exhibition

Explore over 100 posters from 30+ countries. See who’s shaping the future of research data.

VIEW HERE

Visa and Destination

Getting ready for P27 in London? Check Visa Requirements and Travel Information

LEARN MORE

Venue and Rooms

P27 will take place at the Kia Oval. Established in 1845, the Oval is located in central London and serves as the home of Surrey County Cricket Club and a venue for international cricket matches.

Learn more about this unique venue and booked roomed

Visiting London: Things to Do and Where to Stay

Planning your trip to London? Check out our guide, featuring attractions near the P27 venue – KIA Oval Cricket Ground, transport, dining areas, and accommodation to help you make the most of your visit.

Check the Guide