Open access, open data, FAIR Data and their implications for life sciences researchers

Abstract

For a range of reasons, such as technological innovations, funder attention, and the critical importance of reproducibility in its practices, the life sciences have often been at the forefront of new research ecosystem developments. This is in contrast with the majority of individual researchers who have, to date, not actively engaged with these shifts. However, many life scientists are now having to become knowledgeable about emerging publication outlets, funder policies, ethical issues, and career incentives. This review articulates many these challenges and also begins to outline the cultural and reward system changes that will be required to embed them. It also provides references, further reading and concludes with some recommended next steps with which to navigate the transforming landscape.