Data Stewards

Introduction to Data Stewardship [UCC MicroCred, Jan-Mar 2027, Bursary Call Open]

Introduction to Data Stewardship

UCC is delighted to announce that applications are now open for the second delivery of DH5001: Introduction to Data Stewardship, a 5-credit NFQ Level 9 micro-credential offered by Sonraí Irish Data Stewardship Network in partnership with University College Cork.

As research becomes increasingly data intensive and as funders place greater emphasis on research data management, FAIR data practices and open research, there is a growing need for professionals with data stewardship expertise. This microcredential provides a practical introduction to these areas and supports the development of skills that are increasingly valued across research, higher education and other areas. 

Feedback from our first cohort was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the relevance and value of the course for those working with research data. You can read Margaret Irons reflections on the programme in this LibFocus blog: Developing RDM expertise: A Librarian’s Review of the Introduction to Data Stewardship Micro-Credential

The programme is suitable:

  • Researchers and research support staff
  • Librarians and information professionals
  • Data stewards and data managers
  • Technical and IT professionals supporting research
  • Research administrators and compliance staff
  • Postgraduate students seeking specialist research data management skills

Course Details

  • Start Date: 11 January 2027
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • Delivery: Hybrid (online and in-person)
  • In-person workshop: 12 January 2027, UCC campus
  • Credits: 5 ECTS
  • NFQ Level: 9

Bursary Opportunities

Through Sonraí Irish Data Stewardship Network, three bursary places are available for eligible applicants. These bursaries are intended to support individuals who wish to develop their expertise in data stewardship and contribute to strengthening national capacity in research data management and stewardship.

Closing date for bursary applications: 20 November 2026

Further information on eligibility and condition of the bursary scheme is available here: Bursary Details 2027

For more information and to apply follow the instructions and information on the DH5001 – Microcredential . For instructions on how to use the UCC Apply platform use this link.

You will find more general information about the course and the bursary scheme on Sonraí Irish Data Stewardship Network.

We would greatly appreciate it if you could share this opportunity with colleagues, researchers, postgraduate students, and professional staff who may be interested in developing their knowledge and skills in research data stewardship.

If you have any questions, please contact researchdata@ucc.ie. 

Funding challenges for Long-Term Data Retention [Survey Open]

Short survey on funding challenges for research data retention and long-term digital preservation

We invite you to participate in a short survey on funding challenges for research data retention and long-term digital preservation, designed by the EOSC-A Long-Term Data Retention Task Force to gather community feedback.

The survey is aimed at professionals working in repositories, archives, research infrastructures, libraries, research organisations, data centres, and related fields.

Estimated completion time: 5–8 minutes
Open until: 30 November 2026
Survey Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc42PyQNgutk_eri4dSOvz-Au9mvLVtHTzKc3KmX_CRz586Ag/viewform?usp=dialog

Meet the Neighbours: ORI, Sonraí and the Irish Reproducibility Network [28 Sept, 11am, online]

ORI, Sonraí and the Irish Reproducibility Network

Repository work does not happen in isolation. The same researchers whose outputs we deposit are also being asked to manage their data properly, document their methods transparently, and make their work reproducible. Different national networks are supporting different parts of that picture, often without knowing much about each other.

This ORI event brings three of those networks into the same room.

Agenda

  • Welcome and introduction, Hardy Schwamm (UCC), ORI
  • Sonraí, the Irish Data Stewardship Network, Zenobie Garrett (RCSI)
  • The Irish Reproducibility Network (IRN), Dermot Lynott (Maynooth University), IRN Chair,
  • Open discussion: where our work overlaps, and where we could work together

About the three networks

ORI is a national peer network where repository practitioners support each other, share knowledge, and work together to strengthen repository practice across Ireland.

Sonraí is Ireland’s data stewardship network. It works to raise the profile of data stewards, professionalise the role, and build the skills needed for a FAIR and open research data landscape. If you have ever been “the data person” in your team, Sonraí is talking about your work.

The Irish Reproducibility Network is a national, peer-led consortium working to improve research quality, transparency and culture across all disciplines. It focuses on training, connecting local leads across institutions, and practical support for open and reproducible practice.

All are grassroots practitioner networks, initially supported by the National Open Research Forum, and all three are working towards the same national goals under the National Action Plan for Open Research.

Register your interest here

28 Sept, 11am, online