Registration Links

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Overview

This is a hybrid interactive workshop exploring data steward personas and potential career pathways for these roles with opportunities for networking.

As the volume and complexity of research data continue to grow, so does the essential role of Data Stewards—professionals who ensure that data is shareable, reusable, and aligned with FAIR principles. Although many roles, including librarians, archivists, Research Software Engineers (RSEs), research managers, technicians, and researchers routinely perform data stewardship activities, the position of “Data Steward” remains under-defined and often under-recognised in many countries. 

Existing work largely focuses on defining the responsibilities of Data Stewards and the skills and training required to succeed in these roles. However, there is limited attention on establishing clear, sustainable career pathways for Data Stewards. The RDA Data Steward Career Tracks Working Group (WG), part of the Research Data Alliance, aims to address this gap by developing a systematic methodology for defining data steward personas and mapping potential career pathways for these roles. 

This event will bring together key stakeholders to contribute to the WG’s work by collaboratively developing Data Steward Personas. The session will begin with a brief introduction to the Working Group’s objectives, followed by an interactive workshop. Lunch will be provided (for those attending in person) with opportunities for networking and informal discussion throughout. 

Target Audience / Prerequisites:

This workshop is suitable for individuals currently working in, or closely connected to, data stewardship—including librarians, archivists, RSEs, research managers, technicians, researchers, and established Data Stewards. It is especially relevant for those interested in shaping or understanding potential career trajectories for Data Stewards and contributing to the development of representative personas. 

Ethics Notice

As this workshop involves the collection of data that will be shared as an output, ethical approval has been secured. We will request your consent at the start of the session.