Advancing FAIRness and National Collaboration in Geosciences: The Role of EPOS-Spain in Open Science and Data Integration

The European Plate Observing System (EPOS) (https://www.epos-ip.org/) is Europe’s foremost infrastructure for multidisciplinary and global research in Earth Sciences. Serving as a unique gateway, EPOS offers access not only to raw data but also to data products, services, software, and research facilities, facilitating inter- and transdisciplinary collaboration across the geosciences. EPOS-Spain (https://epos-es.org) plays a critical role in implementing EPOS at the national level, aligning its efforts with the broader goals of the EPOS framework while addressing specific national needs. It focuses on strengthening and integrating the Spanish nodes within EPOS’s thematic core services, while advancing Open Science principles by enhancing the accessibility, interoperability, and reusability of geoscientific data and services. EPOS-Spain has developed innovative digital infrastructures and implemented resources designed to improve the FAIRness (Findability, Accessibility, Interoperability, and Reusability) of geoscientific data. This commitment ensures that researchers within Spain can seamlessly discover, access, and utilize data, fostering greater collaboration and innovation at the national level. EPOS-Spain actively promotes the use of EPOS resources in national research projects, educational programs, and capacity-building initiatives, particularly benefiting Early Career Scientists. By engaging stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, including geologists, engineers, and policymakers, EPOS-Spain facilitates interdisciplinary workflows and collaborative approaches to address societal challenges such as risk mitigation and urban planning. These efforts are complemented by initiatives to strengthen ties among Spanish institutions, creating a robust and cohesive network of geoscientific research within the country.

Through its initiatives under the EPOS-SpN RED2022-134516-E project, EPOS-Spain strengthens researchers’ ability to integrate geoscientific data across disciplines and domains. Notable efforts include the development of educational and outreach materials, such as postcards and videos that explain FAIR principles and their application across various branches of geosciences. The EPOS-ES website is regularly updated and now features a dedicated blog that delves deeper into key concepts, enhancing accessibility and engagement. Additionally, EPOS-Spain organizes events like Summer Schools, which foster training opportunities and collaboration between Early Career Scientists and established researchers. Regular meetings with the national Thematic Core Services (TCS) facilitate continuous dialogue and integration within the geoscientific community. These efforts collectively contribute to fostering groundbreaking inter- and transdisciplinary studies, enabling innovative solutions to both scientific and societal challenges. By facilitating the discovery, sharing, and analysis of geoscientific data, EPOS-Spain exemplifies the transformative potential of integrated research infrastructures, advancing Earth Sciences while supporting the broader goals of Open Science.

These activities are supported by the EPOS-SpN RED2022-134516-E grant funded by MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033.