The European Commission on 26 June 2014 announced that it would be seeking ways to initiate “Science 2.0”, whereby researchers would be encouraged to take part in data sharing, avoiding duplication and improving accessibility to crucial research results.
The announcement by Commissioner for Research and Innovation, Máire Geoghegan-Quinn, does not come as a surprise. A key goal of Horizon 2020 is meant to be open access to scientific publications. This idea is picked up on by a few Member States who argue that as taxpayer money is funding the research, the public have a right to access the resulting data.
While “Science 2.0” would improve the ability of VPH researchers to access data, it is unclear what steps the new Commission in November might take (if any). Beyond Horizon 2020, the Commission has little influence when it comes to encouraging Member States to promote open access policies.
Open access in Horizon 2020 however through “Science 2.0” may be a step in the right direction.
