A survey on the status quo, gaps and needs among research data professionals in the Helmholtz Association

With the HMC Data Professionals Survey 2024, the Helmholtz Metadata Collaboration (HMC) assessed the current state, challenges and requirements of Helmholtz staff in the area of research data management (RDM) and FAIR data practices. The survey focused on data professionals involved in RDM-related tasks in the Helmholtz Association. A total of 156 valid responses were collected from 16 out of 18 Helmholtz centres and all six Helmholtz research fields. This diversity ensures that the survey captures a representative range of perspectives. The results show that RDM work is spread across different stakeholders, professions and organisational levels. While most respondents are familiar with their centre's data policy, the majority have no formal training in RDM - although the data reflects widespread interest in RDM-related training. The results provide a snapshot into the implementation of the FAIR principles in the Helmholtz data ecosystem, and the collaborative use and development of various RDM tools. In particular, the survey highlights the prevalent challenges in RDM work, with many respondents reporting limited resources, gaps in technical knowledge, lack of infrastructure and lack of technical solutions. ... mehrThe survey results, complemented by qualitative feedback from focus groups, will guide HMC's strategic initiatives to improve the FAIR data ecosystem within the Helmholtz Association.