In previous episodes, we introduced the role of data stewards, explored their responsibilities, and highlighted the benefits they bring to the research ecosystem. Now, it’s time to focus on how to track one down.
Where to Begin...
Library
Libraries often serve as a central hub for Open Science and Open Access initiatives, even though their contribution is sometimes overlooked. Because of this, many institutions have chosen to consolidate data management support within their library systems. As a result, numerous data stewards have emerged from the ranks of research librarians, gradually adapting to the increasing demands of data stewardship.
IT Department
While IT teams are primarily known for assisting with basic technical setups, their expertise goes far beyond that. They can be valuable partners when tackling more complex challenges, such as leveraging high-capacity storage solutions, ensuring secure data management, and integrating advanced technological infrastructure for research projects.
Open Science Center
An Open Science Center takes a holistic approach to supporting open research, covering everything from Open Access publishing and legal aspects of data sharing to citizen science and comprehensive data management. Its mission is to provide researchers with guidance, training, and infrastructure to seamlessly implement Open Science principles and adhere to FAIR data standards.
Project Management Office
If you’re unsure where to turn, your institution’s project management team can be a valuable resource. They can point you in the right direction and provide useful insights on available support structures.
Expanding the Search: Mapping the Community
If your institution doesn’t currently have a data steward, don’t worry—we have another option for you! Our interactive map now features 30 institutions and 56 data stewards (as of February 19, 2025), forming an expanding network of data specialists who are shaping the future of research data management.
Want a Data Steward on Your Team? Post a Job Ad!
If you haven’t found a data steward—or if your institution needs to establish a dedicated position—consider working with leadership or HR to create a job listing. The first step is to define the role’s responsibilities clearly. A well-structured job post, combined with a carefully planned hiring process, increases the likelihood of attracting a professional who can support FAIR data practices, repository management, and long-term data stewardship.
Tips for Writing an Effective Job Ad:
- Keep the structure clear and concise to make it easy to read.
- Ensure the description is engaging and appeals to potential candidates.
- Be honest—never promise something that the institution cannot deliver.
Need Inspiration? Here’s a Sample Job Posting:
Galactic University for Super Scientists Seeks Data Steward to Champion Open Science!
Position: Data Steward (Data Superhero)
Location: Galactic University, Open Science Center
Who We Are:
Galactic University (GU) is a prestigious research institution dedicated to the development of cutting-edge technologies. Our faculties cover a broad spectrum of interstellar and multidimensional sciences.
Who We’re Looking For:
We need a Data Steward to help us maintain balance in open data access across the galaxy! If you have exceptional skills in research data management and are passionate about upholding FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) principles on a cosmic scale, we want you on our team.
Your Mission:
- Provide guidance to research teams on data stewardship and sharing practices in accordance with FAIR principles.
- Assist in the creation, implementation, and maintenance of Data Management Plans (DMPs).
- Support researchers in selecting appropriate metadata standards and storage solutions.
-
Advice on choosing an appropriate and secure way to store data, backup and share research data, and select data management tools.
- Advise on licensing, institutional policies, and best practices for data governance.
- Organize training sessions and workshops for academics and students.
- Develop Open Science infrastructure and educational materials.
- Represent the institution at national and international Open Science events.
What You’ll Need:
- University degree.
- Experience working with research data and data management workflows.
- Familiarity with FAIR principles and Open Science practices.
- Proficiency in data management tools and repositories.
- Strong communication, organizational, and presentation skills.
- English proficiency (minimum B2 level).
- Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and teamwork capabilities.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Previous experience in academia or a similar role.
- Interest in Open Science policies and advocacy.
- Knowledge of data repositories, metadata standards, and licensing frameworks.
- Experience with DMP tools (e.g., DMPonline, Data Stewardship Wizard).
- Understanding of legal and ethical considerations in research data management (GDPR, sensitive data handling).
What We Offer:
- Flexible working arrangements (full-time or part-time).
- Competitive salary aligned with academic standards and experience.
- Contract with the possibility of extension. 5 weeks of vacation + remote work options.
- Professional development opportunities, conference participation, meal vouchers, Multisport card, and international project involvement.
Start Date & Application Process:
- Start Date: Immediate or negotiable.
- How to Apply: Send your CV and cover letter to careers@galacticuniversity.space.
- Contact for Questions: Ing. Jane Doe, doe@galacticuniversity.space.
Join us and become a guardian of research data—protecting knowledge for the future of the universe!
Job Listing is Live—What’s Next?
Once your job ad is ready, the next step is publishing it. Besides traditional job boards, consider promoting it in libraries, Open Science Centers, and IT departments. You can also share it with us—we’ll be happy to post a link to your listing on our platform. Send us an email to pr@eosc.cz.
We’d love to hear about your experience! Your insights will help other institutions understand the importance of this role and how to successfully integrate data stewardship into academic environments.
Why Should Institutions Systematically Support Data Stewards?
Because "Data management is often left to researchers who lack the time or expertise. We need to recognize this profession and fully integrate data stewards as essential members of research teams."
Petr Humpolíček,
Vice-Rector for Creative Activities, Tomas Bata University in Zlín
Because data management was a necessity "Our research group was drowning in disorganized data. We had to establish proper management practices just to keep things manageable. I soon realized we weren’t the only ones struggling, yet there was no one to guide us—I had to figure it out on my own."
Marek Cebecauer,
J. Heyrovský Institute of Physical Chemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences
Because “A scientist is not a librarian or an archivist. Their main focus is creativity, not remembering where every dataset is stored. They need to concentrate on their experiments without worrying about how to transfer data for a colleague in Ostrava to process.” říká Marek Cebecauer
To Be Continued...
Don’t miss the next episode of our series, Guardians of Data: Mission FAIR – Follow us on social media and be among the first to know when the next episode is released!
