In this interview we feature Zenia Xenou, engagement and training officer at OpenAIRE AMKE. Zenia sheds light on the develoment of a novel framework for Researcher Profiles framework within GraspOS, and explains how it aims to support signatories of the Agreement on Reforming Research Assessment in implementing the Commitments. 

You can also follow Zenia on LinkedIn.

Can you briefly introduce yourself? Where do you work at, what are your centres of interest, and what is your role in GraspOS?

My name is Zenia Xenou, and I am a mechanical engineer by background. Currently, I work as an Engagement and Training Officer at OpenAIRE AMKE, where I initially focused on fostering collaboration between stakeholders, as well as implementing and managing training activities to support project objectives. Over time, my interests have evolved towards understanding how researchers can effectively showcase their work and contributions in the most thorough and impactful way. I am particularly passionate about promoting Responsible Research Assessment, ensuring that scholarly outputs are recognised fairly and transparently. In GraspOS, my role is aligned with these interests as I am working on the creation of a new tool — a framework that will provide researchers with the opportunity to showcase their career trajectories and achievements in a comprehensive way.

Last December, at the REvaluation Conference 2024 in Vienna, you gave a presentation on the new framework for Researcher Profiles which is being developed in GraspOS. Can you tell us more about its stage of development? 

The development of the new Researcher Profiles framework in GraspOS is progressing well, and we are currently focusing on building the user interface. We have already integrated data from ORCID and the OpenAIRE Graph, which will provide a strong foundation for researchers to showcase their professional contributions. The goal is to create a flexible, dynamic profile that not only aggregates data but also allows researchers to manually insert additional information to better highlight their unique contributions. This profile will be customisable and adaptable, considering the diversity of fields that researchers may be involved in. For example, a researcher in engineering might present their profile very differently from one in social science, and it is important that our framework accommodates these differences.

Rather than focusing solely on publications, this profile will offer a more comprehensive view of a researcher's impact. Researchers will be able to include a wide range of activities, such as their environmental contributions, volunteer work, and efforts to promote scientific knowledge and education. The aim is to present a broader, more holistic picture of a researcher's role in both science and society. Additionally, a key goal of this framework is to not only assess and showcase researchers' contributions in a quantitative way, using indicators and metrics, but also to emphasise and evaluate the quality of their work and its impact. This will allow for a more nuanced understanding of a researcher's contributions beyond numbers, highlighting the significance and broader effects of their work throughout their careers.

Zenia Xenou (OpenAIRE) and Lottie Provost (CNR) presenting
the framework for Researcher Profiles at the REvaluation Conference 2024 in Vienna. 

How does this novel tool address the needs of the Agreement on Reforming Research Assessment signatories regarding the implementation of the Commitments?

The tool aligns with the Agreement on Reforming Research Assessment by recognising the diverse outputs, practices, and activities that contribute to maximising the quality and impact of research. Additionally, the tool responsibly incorporates quantitative indicators to complement qualitative aspects, supporting a more holistic approach to research evaluation and emphasising the importance of qualitative perspectives in assessment. This balanced approach reflects the principles of the Agreement, fostering a more comprehensive and equitable system for evaluating research.

What else are you currently working on? If you could highlight one specific aspect of the project that you feel particularly excited about, what would it be?

Currently, I am focused on the development of the novel framework for Researcher Profiles, which is an exciting and multifaceted challenge. However, while there are many aspects that require attention, one particularly engaging challenge is the creation of narrative CVs. These CVs are essential for promoting responsible research assessment as they provide a qualitative perspective on researchers' contributions both within and beyond their academic work. One of the key features we are focusing on is the creation of diverse and customisable templates, which allow researchers to tailor their profiles to reflect their unique contributions across various fields. While this approach may present challenges, it also offers novel flexibility that is both exciting and valuable. As a researcher working in interdisciplinary fields, building a tool with these innovative features and providing a platform that better showcases researchers' contributions, is truly exciting. It feels rewarding to be part of a project that can significantly enhance how research impact is presented and assessed.

Can you share with us your go-to activity for relaxing after a busy week at work?

I enjoy spending time with my closest friends and focusing on activities that help me recharge. I like to take non-work-related trips, which allow me to disconnect and refresh. In the winter, I love skiing, which gives me a sense of adventure, while in the summer, my relaxation comes from being near the sea, where I can enjoy the calming environment.

Thank you for your time, Zenia!