RDA 8th Plenary Meeting [part of IDW], Denver (CO), US

Convened by WDS and CODATA, SciDataCon 2016 is a scientific research conference that will advance the frontiers of data in research.  This means addressing a range of fundamental and urgent issues around the ‘Data Revolution’ and the recent data-driven transformation of research and the responses to these issues in the conduct of research.  SciDataCon features scientific papers from a wide range of perspectives.  The scope is explicitly broad and inclusive, addressing all aspects of the role of data in research.

This event will be the centrepiece of IDW, bringing together international researchers, industrialists, policy makers and educators to discuss the major opportunities and challenges of the data revolution, from ‘Big Data’ to ‘Open Data.’  Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from world-renowned keynote speakers and collaborate with one another regarding the national and international dimensions of the data revolution, its implications for research and policy, and the linkages between research, industry and education that are required for the global community to fully exploit new opportunities.

The 8th RDA Plenary Meeting offered attendees a unique opportunity to network and collaborate with colleagues and peers in various disciplines, and make concrete progress in technical and social areas on topics related to research data sharing and exchange.  Besides keynote talks by leading members of the community, important features of the RDA Plenary included the highlighting of organisations who have adopted RDA’s outputs, meetings of Working Groups and Interest Groups, and ‘Birds of a Feather’ discussions, which explore new potential working or interest group topics.

ICSU-WDS was established in 2008 (its predecessor bodies were established in 1957). Its membership is comprised of data repositories, data service providers, and their partners. Its focus is on identifying, creating, and sustaining institutions that provide stewardship, long-term preservation, and access to data.

ICSU-CODATA was established in 1966. Its membership is comprised of National Academies, Science Councils, international Scientific Unions, and related organizations that care about data. Its focus is on creating both a culture and a framework of standards, agreements and protocols that enable data to be shared and reused.

RDA was established in 2013 by several funding agencies in Europe, the United States, and Australia. Its membership is comprised of individuals and organizations (private and non-profit). Its focus is on the detailed implementation of policies, practices, and technologies (i.e., infrastructure) that lower barriers to data exchange.