Research data management does not stop at national borders

Published on: April 28, 2026

Representatives of regional initiatives and networks for research data management from Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Schleswig-Holstein, Hamburg and Lower Saxony gathered at the University of Hamburg.

Representatives of northern German regional initiatives and networks met to discuss the FDM at the University of Hamburg’s new campus. Photo: FDM.SH.
Representatives of northern German regional initiatives and networks met to discuss the FDM at the University of Hamburg’s new campus. Photo: FDM.SH.

The focus was on an in-depth discussion of how existing structures, experiences and services in the north can be better integrated. Within the FDM in particular, many federal states are working on similar issues: advisory services, training, infrastructure, community building, legal frameworks and integration into the NFDI.

The meeting made it clear that there is great potential for synergies between the northern federal states. Joint initiatives, coordinated information services and regular dialogue can help to pool resources effectively and provide even better support for researchers.

The focus was on an in-depth discussion of how existing structures, experiences and services in the north can be better integrated. Photo: FDM.SH
The focus was on an in-depth discussion of how existing structures, experiences and services in the north can be better integrated. Photo: FDM.SH

For FDM.SH, the meeting was an important step towards further strengthening cooperation in the north. After all, good FDM requires not only technical solutions, but also robust networks, short lines of communication and a willingness to look beyond one’s own institutional boundaries. Many thanks to the University of Hamburg for their hospitality and to all participants for the open and constructive exchange!