The morning programme brought a strong international perspective. Clara Boavida shared insights from the Portuguese data steward network, Lukas Kraiger introduced research data management services and infrastructure in Austria, and Marta Kuźma presented practical experience from the Open Science Competence Center at Gdańsk University of Technology. Together, these examples offered a valuable opportunity to compare different approaches to supporting researchers and building professional data stewardship communities.
One of the key themes of the afternoon was artificial intelligence in research data management. A series of practical examples showed how AI can already be incorporated into everyday work with research data. Hana Litavská presented the use of AI in the Data Stewardship Wizard, František Filandr from BioMS demonstrated the development of a scientific tool using agentic AI, and Daniela Kristeková from Mendel University in Brno showed how AI can support the creation of README files. The presentations highlighted not only the opportunities offered by automation, but also the continued need for human oversight and careful verification of AI-generated outputs.
The programme also included a presentation by Marek Cebecauer, who explored whether, when and how “negative” research data should be published – including results produced under unexpected or insufficiently documented conditions.
The meeting concluded with a panel discussion on the role and position of data stewards. Just as importantly, it once again created space for what has become a defining feature of the community: networking, open discussion and informal exchange among people working to advance research data management across Czech institutions.
The sixth community meeting once again showed that data stewardship is about much more than tools and infrastructure. It is equally about connecting people, experience and institutions – across Czechia and beyond.
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