Open Science is a core principle in Horizon Europe. It includes both Open Access to scientific publications and responsible research data management. While the Grant Agreement (GA) defines the general rules, Work Programmes and specific calls may introduce additional or stricter requirements.
Open Access to scientific publications
Open Access means unrestricted and free-of-charge online access to scientific publications.
Open Access to scientific publications must be immediately available (no embargo periods). Only costs for immediate Open Access publishing models (“full open access”) are eligible.
Hybrid journals are generally not eligible.
At the latest upon publication, an electronic copy (published version or accepted manuscript) must be deposited in a trusted repository.
In addition, where relevant, data and other materials needed to validate the publication must be made available.
Note:
- Open Access does not create an obligation to publish. Protection measures (e.g. patents) take precedence.
- Only publication costs incurred DURING the project duration are eligible.
Further information visit the below websites for:
- OpenAIRE
- Registry of Open Access Repositories (ROAR)
- Directory of Open Access Repositories (OpenDOAR)
- Zenodo
Further information and guidance: The European Commission provides Open Research Europe (ORE) as a dedicated Open Access publishing platform for Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe projects. The use is voluntary and supports compliance with Open Access requirements.
Note: ORE is not a repository, but a publishing platform.
Research Data Management
Research data must be managed according to the FAIR principles: Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable.
The development of a Data Management Plan (DMP) is necessary, which must also include timelines for depositing data in a trusted repository.
In addition to the data itself, relevant information and tools must be provided to enable reuse and validation of results.
Key considerations
Open Science is mandatory, unless justified exceptions apply (e.g. data protection, security, intellectual property).
Requirements should be considered early in project planning (e.g. budgeting for publication costs, data management).
The exact implementation may vary depending on the work programme or call.
Further information, AGA, Annex 5, Article 17