The festival opened in Heerlen with a keynote by representatives of “Sjpruut”, a local support initiative that helps new and expectant parents through practical support, social connections and community engagement. Their presentation illustrated how collaboration across organisations and sectors can contribute to addressing societal challenges and creating positive impact.

On the second day in Maastricht, keynote speaker Margaret Gold (Leiden University and Citizen Science Netherlands) explored the role of transdisciplinarity in citizen science. The programme concluded with an endnote lecture by Ludo Waltman (Centre for Science and Technology Studies, Leiden University) on Open Research Information, followed by the signing of the Barcelona Declaration on Open Research Information by Maastricht University Rector Magnificus Jan Smits, reaffirming UM’s commitment to Open Science and responsible research practices.

Throughout the festival, participants exchanged ideas and experiences on making research more open, transparent and collaborative by attending parallel sessions covering a wide range of Open Science topics. The event demonstrated the growing momentum for Open Science in Limburg and provided a valuable opportunity for participants from different disciplines and backgrounds to connect, learn from one another and explore new collaborations.

Aftermovie

Missed the festival or would like to revisit it? Watch the aftermovie to experience the highlights and hear from the people who helped make the first Open Science Festival Limburg a success.