João Mendes Moreira - Area Director of the FCCN unit of the Foundation for Science and Technology - is this year's organizer of the Jornadas FCCN and reveals, in an interview, some of the main highlights for the 15th edition of the meeting.
With less than two months to go until the initiative kicks off, he shared some of his expectations for this edition, more information about the program and explained the importance of the Jornadas FCCN for the teaching and research community. "The Jornadas FCCN represent an enriching and productive opportunity for the teaching and research community," he said.
What will be on the agenda for the Jornadas FCCN 2024?
The Jornadas FCCN are the annual meeting point for the various communities of managers and users of the digital infrastructures and services provided by the Foundation for Science and Technology, through its FCCN unit.
During three intensive days, the sessions will revolve around FCCN's key areas of activity: Connectivity, Computing, Collaboration, Knowledge and Security. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about the latest developments in each of these areas, as well as discuss future plans and provide valuable feedback.
I would like to highlight this year's guest keynote speaker , the prestigious researcher João Canning Clode, Coordinator of MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre at ARDITI, who we will have the honor of welcoming. His presentation promises to provide valuable insights into the importance of environmental research.
This year's edition will also feature a session on the Foundation for Science and Technology's funding instruments, which potential beneficiaries will be able to attend.
In addition to the technical sessions and inspiring talks, there will also be various social and recreational events, providing moments of relaxation and the opportunity to enjoy the wonders of the island of Madeira.
In addition, these days will be a unique opportunity to get to know ARDITI, a local partner in the organization of the event, whose mission is to promote scientific excellence and innovation in the Autonomous Region of Madeira. For more information about this institution, I recommend reading the interview with the chairman of the board of directors.
How is the Area of Scientific Knowledge, which João directs, reflected in this year's edition?
The Scientific Knowledge Area (ACC) plays a fundamental role in ensuring access to sources of scientific information of recognized prestige and quality, in promoting, supporting and facilitating the practice of open science by the national community and in facilitating the management of and access to information on science and technology in Portugal.
As usual, we will focus on presenting progress and future plans in each of the four activities under ACC's responsibility: scientific publications(b-on), open access(scientific repositories, scientific journals and the directory of digital repositories), research data(POLEN GDI) and science management information systems (PTCRIS).
In b-on, for example, we will highlight the implementation of current b-on contracts, particularly in terms of publishing, while in the open access activity, we will address the migration of RCAAP repositories. In the POLEN activity, we will present the national research data program funded by the PRR. Finally, with regard to PTCRIS, we'll cover the data governance model, the funding identifier service and how institutions are using CIÊNCIAVITAE. These are just some of the topics that will be covered during the Days, reflecting the ACC's ongoing commitment to promoting open access, open science and the efficient management of scientific information in Portugal.
What does the academic and research community gain from attending the Conference?
We hope that participants will leave the event with new knowledge, ideas and connections that they can apply to the activities of the organizations they represent.
Participating in the Jornadas FCCN offers the teaching and research community an opportunity to keep up to date with the latest advances, trends and discoveries in the areas of activity of FCCN. In addition, they provide an environment conducive to networkingThis allows for the establishment of new contacts, collaborations and partnerships. These contacts can lead to opportunities for collaborating on projects, exchanging knowledge and experiences, as well as providing a space for discussing common ideas and challenges. In addition, the Days also provide a platform for participants to share their activities with a wider audience, receiving valuable feedback and visibility for their work.
No less important is the possibility of interacting with representatives of the days' sponsors, either to find out about new products/services or to deal with issues in use.
In short, the Jornadas FCCN represent an enriching and productive opportunity for participants from the teaching and research community.
How will this edition differ from previous ones?
The main difference with previous editions is the venue. For the first time, FCCN will be held outside the premises of the local partner. This change is due to the scale that the Days have reached as a result of organic and sustained growth over successive editions. The sessions will take place in modern and inspiring infrastructures, guaranteeing comfort for the participants. We hope that the iconic location, the emblematic complex of buildings (Madeira Congress Center, Hotel Pestana Casino Park) created by architect Oscar Niemeyer, will add a special touch to this year's Jornadas FCCN and provide a unique experience.
What impact do you think this event will have on the Madeira region?
The Jornadas FCCN can have several positive impacts on the Madeira region. I would like to highlight a few important points.
Firstly, the visibility of the region, not only as a tourist destination, but also as a center of research, technology and innovation. It will also encourage the regional teaching and research community to take advantage of the digital infrastructures and support services provided by FCCN. Finally, the Days will boost networking and collaboration opportunities between the regional community and the continental community, strengthening ties and promoting exchanges of knowledge.
Over the next few weeks, more news will be released about the Jornadas FCCN 2024. Follow everything at https://jornadas.fccn.pt/
