Call for expressions of interest: EC public consultation on open research data

Dear Sir, dear Madam,

Open enquiry is at the heart of scientific endeavour, and rapid technological change has profound implications for the way that science is both conducted and communicated. Research is being transformed in particular by the increasing availability of digital data and new technologies for gathering, processing and generating digital resources.

The importance of open access to research data is reflected in the Commission Communication `Towards better access to scientific information: Boosting the benefits of public investments in research` (COM(2012) 401).

In order to obtain the input of all concerned stakeholders on this important but sensitive issue the Directorate-Generals for `Communications Networks, Content and Technology` (CNECT) and `Research and Innovation` (RTD) jointly invite you to a one-day public consultation, which will be held on Tuesday 2 July 2013 in Brussels (European Commission, Place Madou 1, 1210 Brussels, ground floor auditorium). The outcomes will help the Commission to further develop its policy.

Practical arrangements:

Expressions of interest for participation in the event (including name of the participant and affiliation) should reach the following address by Wednesday 19 June 2013: CNECT-C3@ec.europa.eu.

The maximum number of participants is limited to 100. Registrations will be accepted in the order in which they are received. However, the Commission reserves the right to give priority to those with a direct interest in the topic, and will ensure that there is a balanced representation of all concerned parties.

Confirmation of registration and details of the venue will be sent during the week prior to the scheduled date.

Cordially,

José Cotta
Head of Unit, Digital Science, Directorate-General for Communications Networks, Content and Technology (CONNECT.C3)

Gilles Laroche
Head of Unit, Ethics and Gender Unit, DG Research and Innovation (RTD.B6)