Data Champions – People committed to Research Data Management at Bielefeld University
Data Champions are researchers who voluntarily engage in good research data management (RDM) and share their expertise within their own disciplines. They support colleagues, contribute discipline-specific knowledge, and help raise awareness of RDM practices. Unlike Data Stewards (as in DFG INF projects), Data Champions usually work on a voluntary basis and independently of central RDM services. A formal role as a Data Steward is not required.
At Bielefeld University, a Data Champions network brings together researchers with an interest in RDM from different disciplines. Members meet digitally two to three times a year to discuss current developments, tools, and best practices, and to share topics from their own projects or research areas. The central RDM service units (Competence Center for Research data and Servicestelle Medical Data Science) provide initial input and support the Data Champions where needed, for example in creating practical guidance documents.
The benefits for Data Champions are manifold: they gain access to up-to-date information, can engage in interdisciplinary exchange, further develop their own RDM strategies, and increase their visibility within the university. At the same time, departments and the university benefit from their feedback and best practices, which inform the development of central RDM services.
The role is open to all interested researchers. Participation is flexible, voluntary, and can be adapted to individual availability.
Interested in joining us?
Please contact the network directly (data@uni-bielefeld.de) and you will be introduced through a short onboarding process.
Further information, including the current list of Data Champions and contact details, is available on the Data Champions network webpage at Bielefeld University.