Assessing the state of research e-infrastructures for open science in Ukrainian higher education institutions

The paper analyses the usage of research e-infrastructures in the realm of Open Science in Ukraine's higher education institutions (HEIs). Specifically, the study assesses the degree of organisational support for the research e-infrastructure dedicated to Open Science endeavours. This support encompasses providing unique tools, resources, and services tailored to facilitate specific HEIs' research activities. Additionally, the investigation scrutinises the functioning of the structural units and personnel responsible for developing and maintaining the research e-infrastructures. Furthermore, the paper delineates the salient features of utilising services that constitute the research e-infrastructures ecosystem for Open Science in HEIs of Ukraine. Notably, these services encompass mechanisms to ensure open access to publications, mechanisms for the storage and management of open research data, initiatives focused on the professional development of research and academic staff, endeavours aimed at enhancing research responsibility and integrity, systems for research performance evaluation, and efforts towards the advancement of citizen science. A comprehensive analysis of survey data, which aimed to examine the current state of organisational support for research e-infrastructure in Ukrainian HEIs, bases the research findings presented in this study. The survey involved a substantial sample size, with 1, 502 participants representing over 110 HEIs. The analysis revealed that while there has been significant progress at the national level in promoting Open Science, there is still a notable fragmentation in implementing comprehensive Open Science policies, particularly concerning e-infrastructures, at the institutional level. The findings further highlight significant areas for improvement in the current state of organisational support for research e-infrastructure in Ukrainian HEIs. The authors propose several key recommendations from the study to address these challenges. First and foremost, there is a need to establish a pervasive culture of Open Science at the institutional level, whereby HEIs prioritise the integration of Open Science principles into their key normative documents. In addition, it is crucial to appoint highly competent professionals to administer and manage research e-infrastructures within HEIs. Developing a well-crafted communication policy that promotes awareness of available e-infrastructure resources and services and facilitates access to research infrastructures is essential to foster employee awareness and understanding. Furthermore, the active engagement of employees from IT departments and library workers is critical in operational and supportive aspects of research e-infrastructure. Continuous professional development and training initiatives are also crucial to elevate the proficiency of research and academic staff. Ultimately, creating an environment that fosters impactful research practices is paramount. By implementing these recommendations, HEIs can improve their organisational support for research e-infrastructure, strengthen their commitment to Open Science, and enhance their institutions' research capabilities and impact.