This week Rory joins Esther Plomp! With a PhD studying the unique isotopic composition of human teeth and the story they tell, and an incredibly active involvement both outside and inside the university when it comes to Data management, Esther is perfectly placed to discuss some of the topics at the forefront of OpenScience:

In this conversation, Esther and Rory talk about how Esther first got involved with data management, her involvement in various spheres and organisations that aim to promote FAIR data handling, before moving on to more complex issues, such as the divide between Researchers and Research Staff, and the issues it causes when considering different stakeholders, perspectives and motivations of those involved.

Esther goes on to comment on a possible solution: if the divide really is the issue, we need more people who blur the lines. With a perspective of life both as a researcher and a data steward, Esther comments on how individuals that embody and encourage both aspects may be crucial in building the connections that break down the boundaries holding back the transformation of research to incorporate FAIR principles.