Marine Biodiversity Data Mobilization Workshop 2024

Ocean Biodiversity Information System (OBIS); United States; Remote; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative organization is hosting the Marine Biodiversity Data Mobilization Workshop 2024, aimed at enhancing marine biodiversity data interoperability. This engaging virtual event brings together experts from around the globe to share knowledge on data standards and practices, fostering a collaborative environment for data managers and scientists. Participants will gain insights into mobilizing diverse datasets, including animal telemetry data, while promoting inclusivity through language-specific breakout rooms. With a focus on hands-on learning, attendees will engage in discussions and work on their datasets, ensuring a rich learning experience. Join this dynamic community and contribute to the future of marine biodiversity!

Job description

Marine Biodiversity Data Mobilization Workshop 2024

Date: June 28, 2024 - OBIS Biodiversity mobilization OBIS Training

From April 22 - 24, 2024, a group of experts in marine data science standards and data management hosted the third edition of the Marine Biodiversity Data Mobilization workshop. The virtual 12-hour workshop was held over three days to help scientists and data managers learn how to leverage data standards to rapidly mobilize their data to OBIS and GBIF. The organizers and facilitators represented several organizations and OBIS nodes, including Hakai Institute, Ocean Biodiversity Information System nodes (Caribbean, USA, Eastern South Pacific), Ocean Tracking Network, U.S. and Canadian Integrated Ocean Observing Systems, Marine Biodiversity Observation Network, and Ocean Biodiversity Information System Secretariat, with collectively over 100 years of experience implementing relevant standards and practices.

A total of 415 applications were received, a 260% increase compared to last year. To maintain an interactive, hands-on experience, a smaller group of applicants was invited to register. Ultimately, 88 individuals registered, with attendance peaking around 60 on Day 1. Participants represented 5 continents and 18 countries, demonstrating the global reach of the virtual workshop. About 20% of attendees were returning participants.

The workshop's structure was somewhat unconventional, emphasizing breakout room discussions and individual work. Content is openly available at: 10.5281/zenodo.7896606. After viewing short videos describing various workflow aspects, participants engaged in learner-led discussions in breakout rooms, dedicating time to working on their datasets. This year, Spanish-speaking breakout rooms with instructors from Chile and the Caribbean were added to promote inclusivity. A focus was placed on mobilizing animal telemetry data. The workshop addressed challenges in standardizing at least 60 datasets collected via methods like eDNA, animal tracking, net tows, and microscopy. Recently, one dataset was successfully mobilized and shared to OBIS and GBIF as a result of this workshop.

Participants were encouraged to share their data via GitHub to document blockers, facilitate data openness, and promote post-workshop engagement. A post-workshop survey indicated the structure was effective, with all participants stating it helped them overcome their blockers. The expertise and helpfulness of instructors were frequently highlighted as strengths.

Figure 1: Chart showing whether the workshop helped attendees overcome their blockers, rated from 1 (not at all) to 5 (completely).

Overall, the workshop aimed to enhance marine biodiversity data interoperability and grow the community of practice. These goals were largely achieved. Attendees are invited to join our Slack community and continue engagement via GitHub. Additionally, eight participants expressed interest in becoming future facilitators, supporting the workshop's sustainability.