Open science is an inclusive approach to the scientific research process that builds on the key principles of academic freedom, research integrity and scientific excellence. In accordance with the UNESCO Recommendation on Open Science, various movements and practices are being established aiming to make multilingual scientific knowledge openly available and reusable, to increase scientific research collaborations and sharing of information for the benefits of science and society as well as scientific knowledge creation, evaluation and communication to societal actors beyond the traditional scientific community. 

On European level, open science is defined in the adopted European Commission’s policy, which places open science at the heart of European research policy with the aim of achieving the best position to exploit the benefits of open science by opening up the research system between scientists, disciplines and society as a whole.

At the University of Maribor, together with the University of Maribor Library, we are introducing open science principles, taking into account legislation and international guidelines. We are involved in European initiatives, associations and projects and at the same time shaping internal policies. To contribute to an open and inclusive society, we are introducing to the research and education process open access to research results and research infrastructure, professional support as well as promote open access publishing.

Open Access Policy for Research Infrastructure at the University of Maribor

At its 14th regular session of 24 November 2020, the Senate of the University of Maribor adopted Decision No. 030/2020/78/515-MP, with which it endorsed the Open Access Policy for Research Infrastructure at the University of Maribor.

Open Access Policy

The aim of the ODVIj pilot project under the Recovery and Resilience Plan, implemented by the University of Maribor in cooperation with the University of Maribor Library in the period between 1 January 2023 and 31 December 2025, is to facilitate systematic use of freely accessible e-content, its promotion and to increase access to quality education and learning in various forms and environments for target groups (dropouts, graduates who need to requalify, individuals/citizens who want to participate in research) and beyond. In the context of digital transition and lifelong learning, we are committed to the implementation of open science (especially open access) in university environments and to the promotion of lifelong learning. The project is implemented as part of various activities and their aim is to build a bridge between the academic and the non-/economic sphere as well as the general public for the benefit of the wider society in accordance with the principles of Society 5.0.

Open Science Brings an Open Mind

The video presenting open science principles and UM activities was created as part of the ODVIj pilot project, which is co-funded by the Republic of Slovenia, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, and the European Union – NextGenerationEU.

“Cooperation of the academic community with the environment under open science conditions connects people and builds innovation and trust in science.”

The project is co-financed by the Republic of Slovenia, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, and the European Union – NextGenerationEU.