João Mendes Moreira – Area Director of the FCCN unit, from the Foundation for Science and Technology – this year, he is directing the organization of the FCCN Conferences and reveals, in interview, some of the main highlights for the 15th edition of the meeting.
With less than two months to go before the initiative begins, the person in charge shared some of his expectations for this edition, more information about the program, and explained the importance of the FCCN Conferences for the Teaching and Research community. “The FCCN Conferences represent an enriching and productive opportunity for the teaching and research community,” he highlights.
What will mark the FCCN 2024 Conference schedule?
The FCCN Conferences are the annual meeting point for the various communities of managers and users of the digital infrastructures and services provided by Foundation for Science and Technology, through its FCCN unit.
During three intensive days, the sessions will revolve around FCCN's core areas of activity: Connectivity, Computing, Collaboration, Knowledge and Security. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about the latest developments in each of these areas, as well as discuss future plans and provide feedback valuable.
I highlight the keynote speaker This year's guest, the prestigious João researcher Canning Clode, Coordinator of MARE – Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre at ARDITI, whom we will be honored to welcome. His presentation promises to bring insights valuable information about the importance of environmental research.
This year's edition will also feature a session on the Foundation for Science and Technology's funding instruments, in which potential beneficiaries can participate.
In addition to technical sessions and inspiring talks, there will also be a variety of social and recreational events, providing moments of relaxation and the opportunity to enjoy the wonders of Madeira Island.
Furthermore, these Conferences will be a unique opportunity to get to know the ARDITI, a local partner in organizing the event, whose mission is to promote scientific excellence and innovation in the Autonomous Region of Madeira. For more information about this institution, I recommend reading interview with the chairman of the board of directors.
How is the Scientific Knowledge Area, which João manages, reflected in this year's edition?
The Scientific Knowledge Area (ACC) plays a fundamental role in ensuring access to sources of scientific information of recognized prestige and quality, in promoting, supporting and facilitating the practice of open science by the national community and in facilitating the management of and access to information on science and technology in Portugal.
As usual, we will be focused on presenting the advances and future plans in each of the four activities under the responsibility of ACC: scientific publications (b-on), open access (scientific repositories, scientific journals and still the directory of digital repositories), research data (POLLEN GDI) and science management information systems (PTCRIS).
At b-on, for example, we will highlight the execution of current b-on contracts, particularly at the publishing level, while in the open access activity, we will address the migration of RCAAP repositories. At the POLEN activity, we will present the national research data program funded by the PRR. Finally, regarding PTCRIS, we will address the data governance model, the funding identifier service, and how institutions are using CIÊNCIAVITAE. These are just some of the topics that will be addressed during the Conferences, reflecting ACC's ongoing commitment to promoting open access, open science, and the efficient management of scientific information in Portugal.
What does the academic and research community gain from attending the Conference?
We hope participants leave the event with new knowledge, ideas, and connections that they can apply to the activities of the organizations they represent.
Participating in the FCCN Conferences offers the teaching and research community an opportunity to stay up-to-date on the latest advances, trends, and discoveries in FCCN's areas of activity. Furthermore, they provide a conducive environment for networking, allowing the establishment of new contacts, collaborations and partnerships. These interactions can lead to opportunities for project collaboration, knowledge and experience sharing, and provide a space to discuss ideas and common challenges. Furthermore, the Conferences also offer a platform for participants to share their activities with a wider audience, receiving feedback valuable and visibility for their work.
No less important is the opportunity to interact with representatives of the event sponsors, whether to learn about new products/services or discuss current issues.
In summary, the FCCN Conferences represent an enriching and productive opportunity for participants in the teaching and research community.
How will this edition differ from previous ones?
The main difference from previous editions is the location. For the first time, the FCCN Conferences will take place outside the local partner's facilities. This change is due to the scale the Conferences have achieved as a result of organic and sustained growth over successive editions. The sessions will take place in modern and inspiring facilities, ensuring the comfort of participants. We hope that the iconic location, the emblematic building complex (Madeira Congress Center, Pestana Casino Park Hotel) created by the architect Oscar Niemeyer, add a special touch to this year's FCCN Conferences and provide a unique experience.
What impact do you expect this event to have on the Madeira region?
The FCCN Conferences can have several positive impacts on the Madeira region. I'd like to highlight a few key points.
Firstly, the visibility of the region, not only as a tourist destination, but also as a center for research, technology, and innovation. Furthermore, the stimulus appropriation by the regional teaching and research community of digital infrastructures and services support provided by FCCN. Finally, the Conferences will enhance opportunities for networking and collaboration between the regional community and the continental community, strengthening ties and promoting knowledge exchanges.
Over the next few weeks, more news will be released about Jornadas FCCN 2024. Follow everything at https://jornadas.fccn.pt/
