Essentials 4 Data Support
About this course
Essentials for Data Support course is an introductory course designed for professionals entering the field of research data management (RDM) support. This hybrid course equips participants with knowledge about tools, best practices, and support mechanisms for effectively assisting researchers in managing their data. The full course includes interactive sessions with experts, peer learning with participants and coaches and hands-on assignments to help participants develop a strong understanding of the RDM landscape in the Netherlands.
- The full course starts with a course day during which you will meet your fellow course participants, your instructors and a number of experts in the field. The instructors will also explain the structure of the online part of the course.
- Until the second course day (about six weeks later) you will have time to study the content of the online learning environment. Among other things, you will be asked to do a current topic assignment, create a data management plan, reflect on your learning process, comment on a case about the legal framework for research data and end with an assignment of your choice. Moodle is used for the assignments.
- The second course day focuses on presentations by the course participants and an evaluation. In addition, a number of experts will talk about their own experiences .
- After the course, you will have access to course materials and assignments on the Moodle platform for continued learning and networking.
Target audience
- Individuals starting their careers in RDM support at academic institutions, libraries, or data services.
- Professionals transitioning into roles that require basic knowledge of research data support
- Those seeking a foundational understanding of RDM practices and tools
Time investment in the course
In addition to the two course days, the average online study load is four to probably six hours per week (50 hours in total).
Certification
Participants who attend both in person days and complete all assignments will receive a certificate of attendance
Learning goals
Understand RDM Fundamentals
Explain the key principles of research data management, including data lifecycle, FAIR data principles, and data sharing ethics.
Identify Support Mechanisms
Familiarize themselves with tools, services, and repositories available for RDM in the Netherlands. Understand the roles of various stakeholders in the RDM ecosystem.
Develop Practical Skills
Assist researchers with data management plans (DMPs), metadata standards, and data storage options. Provide guidance on complying with national and institutional data policies.
Collaborate and Communicate Effectively
Engage in conversations with researchers to understand their RDM needs and challenges. Present RDM solutions tailored to discipline-specific contexts.
Reflect on Case Studies
Analyse and present case studies highlighting real-world RDM challenges and solutions.
Upcoming course
The next in-person course in English is offered on the following dates:
- Day 1: Tuesday, February 10th, 2026
- Day 2: Thursday, March 26th, 2026
Location for both in-person days: DANS, Anna van Saksenlaan 51, 2593 HW The Hague
Costs
The full Essentials 4 Data Support course costs €895, excluding VAT.
If you cannot attend the course, please let us know as soon as possible via cursus@researchdata.nl. Then we might be able to fill up your vacant spot.
If we receive your cancellation up to 7 days prior to the first course day (the date of the first group meeting), no payment is required. For later cancellations, we will have to charge the full amount.
If you don’t attend the course without timely cancellation (up to 7 days prior to the first course day via cursus@researchdata.nl) the full amount will also be charged.
Upcoming Essentials 4 Data Support courses
Essentials 4 Data Support, Feb/Mar 2026
Essentials 4 Data Support
The Essentials 4 Data Support course provides an introductory-level overview for data professionals and those who assist researchers with storing, managing, archiving and sharing their research data. The first round of 2026 will be held in February and March, with details below. One will take place on Thursday, February 5, 2026 and Day Two will take place on Thursday, March 26, 2026. Both in-person days will be hosted at DANS in Den Haag.