Helmholtz Open Science Forum: Collaborative Research Cultures

September 24, 2026, 09:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Background

The Helmholtz Open Science Forum on Collaborative Research Cultures provides a space for reflection and dialogue on how research assessment practices, working conditions, and everyday academic realities shape our research cultures. Bringing together diverse perspectives from within the Helmholtz Association and beyond, the forum aims to identify structural challenges, share experiences, and discuss pathways toward academic work environments that support excellence and attract talent. By fostering open exchange across roles, disciplines, and career stages, the forum contributes to ongoing efforts to strengthen collaborative and interdisciplinary research environments in the Helmholtz Association. Participants also have the opportunity to submit their questions when registering in order to deepen the exchange on key challenges and success factors in a targeted manner. Please note that this event is designed as an internal exchange and is intended for employees of the Helmholtz Association. The event takes place online via Zoom. 

Program

The forum takes place online via Zoom (see below for registration).

Time Agenda Speaker
09:30 Welcome Lea Maria Ferguson & Mathijs Vleugel, Helmholtz Open Science Office
09:45 (Working title) Research Culture, what is it and why is it important? Tjitske Holtrop, CWTS - Centre for Science and Technology Studies
10:10 (Working title) How does EDI contribute to strengthening collaborative research environments?  Kateřina Svíčková, Head of Sector for Gender in the Commission’s Directorate General for Research and Innovation
10:35 Beyond good intentions: The role of Leaders, Allyship, and Networks to advance DEI in the Helmholtz Association  Marlene Gomez Becerra, GFZ Helmholtz-Zentrum für Geoforschung
11:00 Break  
11:05 (Working title) Which insights on research culture can be gained from the N2-Survey? Peter Macsek, Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (DKFZ)
11:30 (Working title) How can research assessment reforms contribute to shaping healthy research cultures? Lea Maria Ferguson, Helmholtz Open Science Office
11:45 Plenary Discussion Mathijs Vleugel, Helmholtz Open Science Office
12:30 Wrap-up Lea Maria Ferguson & Mathijs Vleugel, Helmholtz Open Science Office

We look forward to your participation!

Contact

Mathijs Vleugel

Head Helmholtz Open Science Office

Steffi Genderjahn

Open Science Officer