Open Research in Nova Scotia


With the current global and national focus on open science, Research Nova Scotia is exploring best practices and opportunities in open science that meet the needs of Nova Scotia’s research community.

We have retained an open science and data consultant to help develop a report for us to:

  • Understand current open science practices in Nova Scotia;
  • Identify opportunities and barriers to implementing open science practices in Nova Scotia;
  • Find the researchers, institutions and organizations who are doing this well in Nova Scotia, and from whom we can learn; 
  • Apply best practices and learnings gathered around the world to a uniquely Nova Scotian context; 
  • Recommend ways to implement open science practices equitably, safely, and efficiently in Nova Scotian research.

Our objective is determining how to best design a workable and beneficial open science policy for Research Nova Scotia. By understanding what works, and what challenges and barriers exist, we aim to develop a position on open science that meets the needs of institutions and the research community in Nova Scotia.

Our consultant, Dr. Maria Pawlowska, is conducting an online survey and workshops to get a robust picture of open science in Nova Scotia. Participation in this initiative will provide meaningful input into research practices that may support Research Nova Scotia’s future programming and policies.  

How to participate

1) Online survey, which should take no more than 20 minutes and can be anonymous, or participants can leave their email if they wish to be entered into a draw for one of three $50 Tim Hortons gift cards.

2) In person workshops in Halifax. The sessions will take place at the Halifax Central Library and will run from 10 a.m. – 1.30 p.m. Snacks will be provided.

  • Biomedical sciences – Wednesday, August 30th, 2023
  • Arts, social sciences, and humanities – Wednesday, September 6th, 2023
  • Sciences – Wednesday, September 13th, 2023

All sessions will include an introduction to open research concepts. No prior experience or knowledge is required. During the meeting we will workshop concepts around open research and how to optimize its implementation in Nova Scotia. Researchers, students, administrators, research support staff and librarians wishing to participate are kindly requested to register here.

If you have any questions, email M.pawlowska@visnea.org