Data Stewards Bootcamp FAQ

Guidance & Instructions for participants

Who can participate in the Bootcamp?

The Bootcamp is dedicated to early-career professionals involved in research data management, particularly data stewards, librarians, research support staff, and others supporting FAIR and Open Science practices.

How are participants selected for the closed sessions?

Selection is based on the first 20 compatible profiles, prioritizing early-career data stewards and ensuring a balance of institutional and geographic representation. Completion of daily tasks may also be considered for those willing to claim the Certificate of Completion of this 4 day Bootcamp.

What about the open sessions?

Open sessions are provided to all Open Science community stakeholders willing to attend only by registering once. Certificate of Participation can be provided when attending to all openly available sessions each day of the Bootcamp. Zoom links and reminders will follow upon registration.

What You Will Learn: Core Pillars of the Bootcamp

The RDM Data Stewards Bootcamp is built around five core learning pillars: understanding the role of the data steward across the research data lifecycle; mastering metadata curation and documentation using standards, identifiers, and tools like Dataverse; applying FAIR principles through real workflows and OpenAIRE services such as OpenAIRE Graph, Explore, and Connect; navigating legal, ethical, and licensing challenges including data anonymization and responsible sharing; and strengthening professional collaboration, peer learning, and reflective practice. Through hands-on sessions, real case scenarios, and curated e-learning content, you’ll develop the practical skills and confidence needed to support researchers in FAIR, ethical, and Open Science–aligned data stewardship.

What are the key details of the RDM Data Stewards Bootcamp?

The RDM Bootcamp for Data Stewards is organized by OpenAIRE as a 4-day training programme designed for early-career data stewards and research support professionals. It blends interactive live sessions, hands-on exercises, and online self-paced learning via OpenPlato. Each day is structured around key themes—from metadata curation and FAIR workflows to ethical data sharing and repository practice. Sessions are delivered by experts from OpenAIRE, DANS, UMinho, and other leading institutions. Day 4 is dedicated to assignment wrap-up, mentoring support, peer feedback, and reflection activities to consolidate learning and foster community exchange.

What is the main assignment for each day?

Each day ends with a short, structured assignment based on the sessions attended. These assignments follow a problem-solving case scenario format, allowing you to apply what you’ve learned to realistic situations. If you attend the day’s sessions, the assignment will feel intuitive and easy to complete. All details will be provided upon selection.

What’s the purpose of the daily assignment?

The assignment helps reinforce key takeaways from the day, build applied skills, and prepare you for real-world data stewardship challenges. It also serves as part of the Certificate of Completion requirements.

How will mentors support the assignments?

On Day 4, mentors and trainers will be available in dedicated breakout rooms to review your assignment progress, answer questions, and guide you in finalizing your responses. This will be a space for clarification, deeper discussion, and reflection.

Can I collaborate with others on the assignments?

Yes! You’ll have the option to join open Zoom discussion spaces for peer review and exchange. These informal sessions give you the chance to talk through your ideas, hear other approaches, and reflect collaboratively with fellow participants.

Are the assignments mandatory for the certificate?

Yes. Submitting the daily assignments is a required element for receiving your Certificate of Completion, along with active participation in the sessions and accessing the online materials. No grade is required just contribution by your inputs based on your experiences.

How do I access the course materials?

All materials and assignments will be provided through OpenPlato, the OpenAIRE-supported e-learning platform. You will receive login credentials before the Bootcamp begins. The platform will include: Pre-session briefings and onboarding tasks Daily slides and handouts used by trainers Study cases and sandbox datasets to explore real-life scenarios Metadata templates, curation checklists, and ethical guidance tools Links to OpenAIRE services and third-party tools (e.g., Zenodo, AMNESIA, FAIRsharing) Interactive quizzes and reflection prompts to support your learning You’ll retain access to the platform after the Bootcamp to revisit the materials and continue your learning journey.

Will I receive support before or during the Bootcamp?

Yes! You’ll have access to: Trainers and mentors during the live sessions and asynchronous discussion spaces A helpdesk channel for technical issues with OpenPlato with instant chating Onboarding video tutorials to introduce the platform and bootcamp expectations Optional office hours or drop-in sessions for extra support and guidance This support structure ensures that all participants—especially early-career professionals, can confidently participate and succeed.

What are the participation requirements for certification?

To receive a Certificate of Completion, participants must: a. Attend at least 80% of the live & closed workshops. The closed workshops are those marked with a star in daily agenda. b. Contribute to the daily assignments or hands-on group work. c. Engage and visit with the corresponding online course materials hosted on OpenPlato. d. Submit their evaluation when required.

What can I expect from the FAIR RDM Bootcamp Open Sessions?

The FAIR RDM Bootcamp Open Sessions are designed for anyone interested in research data stewardship. You’ll gain insight into metadata curation, FAIR workflows, OpenAIRE services, and ethical data sharing. These sessions combine expert talks, real-world examples, and peer learning to help you understand the evolving role of the data steward. While open sessions give you access to valuable content and networking opportunities, full participation in the closed sessions requires application. Don’t miss the chance to boost your skills and join the FAIR data community. Register here for the open and publickly available sessions: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/KrWiU2ubTPah-KTODK39cg

How does the Closed Bootcamp benefit selected participants?

The FAIR RDM Bootcamp closed sessions is a unique opportunity for early-career data stewards and research support professionals to engage in intensive workshops, case studies, and guided exercises. Unlike the open sessions, the closed sessions offer tailored mentoring, peer-supported activities, and the chance to earn a Certificate of Completion plus a digital Open Badge. Participation requires selection, based on registration details, professional background, and active engagement in daily assignments. If you want hands-on training, personalized feedback, and recognition of your expertise, this is the track for you. Register here for the closed session as a candidate: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/NRBOtTknT0KEtoSYoRa3Ag

What is the selection process as to participate in FAIR RDM Bootcamp closed sessions and get certified?

The upcoming FAIR RDM Bootcamp for Data Stewards runs from October 13th 2025, ending at October 16th. This 4-day training programme blends live expert-led workshops, case studies, and self-paced learning, designed to equip participants with practical FAIR data stewardship skills. To join the closed session, you must apply through the registration form and demonstrate commitment to completing at least 80% of the daily assignments. Selected participants will receive preparatory materials, guidance, and certification opportunities. With limited spots available, timely registration & profile compatibility are the key. Use the follow registration link and don't forget to select all timeslots in order to get all notifications! Register here: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/ekibx4NSQrO3X0-bStQuZA

Why closed sessions on Wednesday the 15th have a different link?

Please keep in mind that if you are claiming a certified participation you have to register and complete the profile form. If you would like to get the Certificate of Completion, the digital badge and have access to certified online courses register in both links by selecting all given timeslots: Closed Sessions (13,14,16 Oct): https://zoom.us/meeting/register/NRBOtTknT0KEtoSYoRa3Ag Closed Sessions (15 October): https://zoom.us/meeting/register/ekibx4NSQrO3X0-bStQuZA

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