Figshare

Definition

Figshare is an online digital repository that allows researchers to share their research outputs, including datasets, figures, and publications, openly and publicly. By providing a platform for accessible sharing, figshare promotes reproducibility and adherence to open science principles, enabling others to verify, reuse, and build upon existing research.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Figshare allows researchers to upload various types of research outputs, such as datasets, images, videos, and presentations.
2. Every item shared on figshare is assigned a DOI, which enhances its discoverability and citation potential.
3. The platform supports different licensing options, enabling authors to specify how their work can be used by others.
4. Figshare is integrated with various academic institutions and organizations that promote open science initiatives.
5. Using figshare can help researchers meet funder mandates regarding open access and data sharing requirements.

Review Questions

• How does figshare contribute to the principles of reproducibility in scientific research?
  • Figshare contributes to reproducibility by providing a platform where researchers can share their datasets and methodologies openly. This transparency allows other scientists to access the same data and methods used in experiments, enabling them to replicate studies or build upon existing work. By ensuring that research outputs are publicly available and easily accessible, figshare helps foster a collaborative environment that emphasizes validation and verification in scientific inquiry.
• Discuss the role of DOIs in figshare and how they enhance the sharing of research outputs.
  • DOIs assigned by figshare play a crucial role in enhancing the visibility and accessibility of research outputs. Each item uploaded on figshare receives a unique DOI that acts as a permanent link to the resource, making it easier for researchers to cite and reference it in their own work. This system ensures that even as URLs change over time, the DOI remains constant, providing a reliable means for others to locate the shared research material.
• Evaluate the impact of using platforms like figshare on research transparency and collaboration within the scientific community.
  • Platforms like figshare significantly enhance research transparency by allowing scientists to openly share their data, methodologies, and findings. This openness not only facilitates easier collaboration between researchers but also builds trust within the scientific community as findings can be independently verified. The ability to share work publicly encourages a culture where researchers are more willing to engage with each other's work, leading to innovative ideas and advancements that might not occur in more isolated environments.

Related terms

Open Data: Data that is made available to the public for anyone to access, use, modify, and share without restrictions.

DOI (Digital Object Identifier): A unique alphanumeric string assigned to a document or digital object that provides a permanent link to its location on the internet.

Research Transparency: The practice of openly sharing research methodologies, data, and findings to allow for scrutiny and replication of research.