Research Data Management (RDM) in life sciences: essentials
Research Data Management (RDM) in life sciences: essentials
26 October 2026, 9h00- 17h00
General context
Effective research data management (RDM) is more than just a compliance requirement - it's a practical tool that simplifies your workflow, strengthens your research, and enhances the impact of your publications. This training is designed to help researchers embed RDM practices into their projects from the very beginning, always keeping the publication process in focus.
You will explore key concepts such as FAIR data, open data, and data documentation, while gaining hands-on experience in organizing, describing, and sharing data effectively. The course also addresses practical elements including metadata standards, Data Management Plans, and selecting suitable repositories.
- Define key Research Data Management (RDM) concepts, including FAIR data and open data principles
- Identify institutional resources and reliable resources that support effective data management
- Evaluate the relevance of Data Management Plan (DMP) elements and apply them to research projects
- Organize research data and documentation using standardized formats and appropriate metadata
- Explain ethical and legal considerations, including handling of personal/ sensitive data and GDPR compliance
- Select suitable repositories for data sharing, distinguishing between general and discipline-specific options
The training combines short lectures with interactive discussions and exercises, allowing participants to apply concepts to practical scenarios.
Participants are required to bring a laptop for hands-on activities.
This course has been designed for early-career researchers, but researchers in the life sciences at all career stages are welcome to strengthen their data management skills.
No prior knowledge is required to attend this course.
This course is part of multiple learning paths.
"The course was completely different from what I initially thought it would be, in the most positive sense. I thought we would get a (maybe dry and boring) explanation on where to put what data within the VIB RDM infrastructure. "This is what we use", "This goes here", "Do not leave your computer unlocked when you leave your desk".
Instead, it was brought very openly: "these repositories are available, please check which one fits your data best", "You don't know where to store it? Have a look at these websites", "What do you think is sensitive data? And what about in this context?" "Make sure your metadata and coding are clear and understandable; this will only help you and your citations".
Participant spring 2026
Trainers
Niels Geudens
Niels is a research data steward at VIB, where he oversees research data across various life science projects, handling all its aspects throughout the data's life cycle. Niels earned his PhD in Chemistry from Ghent University, specializing in the structural elucidation and mode of action of secondary metabolites. After his PhD, he was actively involved in teaching, delivering several university courses at the Bachelor and Master levels, and guiding thesis and PhD students as they navigate their first steps in academic research. Since April 2024, he is part of the Data Core at VIB.
Matheus Lourenço
Matheus Lourenço is a science communication expert and trainer at VIB. A behaviour change specialist and Marie-Curie fellow with a joint PhD in Psychology from KU Leuven and Maastricht University, he pioneered innovative methodologies in tinnitus treatment and gathered accolades for his ability to make complex scientific approaches accessible to diverse audiences.
After completing his PhD, Matheus worked as a consultant to leading pharmaceutical companies, delivering strategic workshops worldwide. Now back in academia, he is committed to empowering researchers to communicate their work with clarity and impact, thereby strengthening the connection between science and society.
Laura Lucia Standaert
Laura Standaert is the data steward for Life Sciences research at Ghent University. She provides advice, support and training for all aspects of research data management.
Program
RDM intro and key concepts
Coffee Break (provided)
Data Management Plan (DMP)
Coffee Break (provided)
Choosing the right repository
Lunch (provided)
DMP follow-up
Coffee break (provided)
Documentation and metadata
Break
Organization and folder structure
Practical info
26 October 2026
Ghent - VIB/UGent FSVM II
Technologiepark 75
9052 Zwijnaarde
Belgium
26 October 2026
Ghent - VIB/UGent FSVM II
From Ghent Sint-Pieters station, you can take a bus to Technologiepark. Please check Routeplanner De Lijn for schedules.
26 October 2026
Ghent - VIB/UGent FSVM II
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Cycling route planner
Shared bicycles:
Several providers are active in the area.
Take a look at their platforms:
- Indigo Weel Pro app
- Bluebike
- DOTT
- BOLT eBikes
- Donkey Republic
There are also some public bicycle pumps at the park.
26 October 2026
Ghent - VIB/UGent FSVM II
There is only one entrance to Technologiepark. At the entrance, please take a ticket - Parking is only allowed in regular parking spots (for instance in front of the building) and in the parking tower. Parking alongside the roads or in other places where there is no regular parking is prohibited.