The OSTrails project recently announced a very exciting new addition to its multitude of outputs: the launch of its Mentorship Programme, a new initiative designed to build capacity and foster expertise in key areas of research information management, Data Management Plans (DMPs), Scientific Knowledge Graphs (SKGs), and FAIR Assessment. The program is now open for applications, with the call for mentees having been extended until May 9th, 2025.

Supporting Interoperability in the Research Lifecycle

OSTrails, short for Open Science Trails, is a Horizon Europe project dedicated to improving the interoperability, automation, and quality of research outputs throughout their lifecycle. With the Plan–Track–Assess (PTA) Framework as its driving force, facilitating the connection of tools and services in a seamless, standardized way, OSTrails supports smooth integration and information exchange across RDM services aligned with the PTA approach.

By connecting people, tools, and frameworks, OSTrails contributes to a more efficient and transparent Open Science environment in Europe and beyond.

About the Mentorship Programme

The OSTrails Mentorship Program offers unique opportunities for professionals, such as research support staff, data stewards, IT infrastructure managers, repository operators, and funder representatives, to gain in-depth, hands-on knowledge from project experts.

Spanning from June 2025 to May 2026, the program will facilitate monthly exchanges between mentors and mentees, enabling participants to develop practical skills and apply OSTrails tools in real-world settings.

Participants will benefit from:

• Personalized guidance from OSTrails experts
• Insights into implementing the DMP Interoperability Framework (DMP-IF), SKG Interoperability Framework (SKG-IF), and FAIR Assessment Interoperability Framework (FAIR-IF)
• Peer learning and networking opportunities
• Access to curated training resources and documentation

Mentees will be matched with mentors based on their domain, role, and interests to ensure a focused and valuable learning experience.

Who Can Apply?

The program is open to individuals actively involved in research data management, digital infrastructure, Open Science policy, and FAIR implementation. Whether you are a technical implementer, policy designer, or support professional, if you're looking to deepen your expertise in Open Science interoperability, this program is for you.

*Application deadline extended to May 9, 2025.

Learn more and apply here!

Join the OSTrails project team on this journey to help shape a more connected, efficient, and FAIR research ecosystem!