While there are multiple incentives for researchers to use citizen science for data collecting and processing, there are also many benefits for members of the wider public. Empowerment is one of the strongest motivating factors for citizens participating in Citizen Science activities. Participation in Citizen Science activities also increases scientific literacy, both through the activities themselves, as well as through data produced, especially data that can be made relevant or re-purposeful, to citizens. Through this increase, wider trust in science is also reinforced, especially important at this moment in history.
Citizen Science is part of Public Engagement, one of the pillars of Maastricht University’s Open Science Policy.
Citizen Science Support at Maastricht University Library
The library has a scientific information specialist for Citizen Science on staff, who is responsible for helping UM researchers to manage the Citizen Science aspect of their project through every phase. This includes everything from attracting citizens, maintaining community relations and communications, training for volunteers, and location and facility provision for training and workshops (for researchers, staff, and students, as well as citizen scientist volunteers).
The information specialist is also UM’s representative within the De BRUG Regional Citizen Science Hub partnership.
UM Partnership with regional Citizen Science Hub De BRUG
One of the funded initiatives of Citizen Science is De BRUG – short for Diversiteit in Burgerwetenschap: Regionale UitwisselinG – a collaboration between Radboud University, Radboud university medical center, Avans University of Applied Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht UMC+, and the Open University of the Netherlands, along with their societal partners.
De BRUG focuses on increasing diversity and inclusion in citizen science, particularly among groups who are currently underrepresented. By promoting active participation across disciplines and sharing strategies for inclusive engagement, the hub aims to broaden access to science. With a strong regional focus on the south of the Netherlands, De BRUG connects researchers and citizens around key societal themes such as nature and environment, health and well-being, and cultural heritage.
Through this initiative, De BRUG enhances the impact, inclusivity, and visibility of Citizen Science, building bridges between academia and society.
The role of UM comprises several aspects. First, a shared ownership model is used, in which responsibility and engagement are jointly carried by different parties. In addition, UM is a member of a monitoring committee which oversees the progress and quality of the activities. Finally, the aim is to achieve long-term institutional embedding to ensure that the initiatives become sustainably anchored within member organisations.
Contact