Navigation auf uzh.ch
Navigation auf uzh.ch
Switzerland is at the forefront of enhancing data protection in scientific research, with a new initiative aimed at supporting Research Data Protection Officers across higher education institutions to navigate the complex landscape of legal and ethical issues in data management.
In an ambitious move to fortify legal and ethical standards in the management of research data, Swiss higher education institutions are set to benefit from a new mandate under the Swiss National Open Research Data (ORD) Action Plan. This groundbreaking initiative, dubbed Action Line D2.3, focuses on incentivizing, supporting, and funding Research Data Protection Officers (RDPO) at these institutions.
The mandate, awarded to Switch (Leading House), aims to provide a robust framework for addressing open data protection issues related to ORD across Swiss higher education landscapes. By consolidating expertise from data protection officers and incorporating insights from various experts, the initiative seeks to create a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and legalities surrounding ORD.
This action plan is a part of the larger Swiss National Strategy on Open Research Data, which heralds a significant shift towards transparency and accessibility in scientific research. The strategy emphasizes the importance of making research data available to all societal levels, promoting a culture of openness that benefits both the academic community and the public at large.
Broad Scope and Interdisciplinary Collaboration
The initiative is not limited to addressing data protection; it also involves analyzing federal, cantonal, and international laws and standards affected by ORD. This analysis will help outline a "panorama of affected standards," facilitating a more informed and compliant approach to data management in research.
The Action Plan represents a collaborative process among leading Swiss research and educational bodies, including the ETH Domain, the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF), the Swiss Academies of Arts and Sciences, and swissuniversities. This collective effort underscores the commitment to developing a cohesive and sustainable approach to ORD practices in Switzerland.
Funding and Implementation
Scheduled for implementation from January to December 2024, the mandate's funding and strategic direction are meticulously planned. This initiative is part of a broader effort to equip researchers with the necessary resources and knowledge to navigate the complex legal landscape surrounding data management.
With the introduction of Research Data Protection Officers, Swiss higher education institutions are poised to enhance their legal and ethical compliance in research data management. This move not only aligns with international standards but also ensures that Swiss research remains at the forefront of open science practices. As the initiative unfolds, it promises to set a precedent for data protection and management in research, marking a significant milestone in the pursuit of ethical and open research practices.
The Swiss National ORD Action Plan in details here.
