RDM Essentials (December)

RDM Essentials is an introductory training designed for early-career researchers and researchers who are unfamiliar with Research Data Management (RDM). The course provides a practical overview of the key principles and best practices needed to manage research data responsibly throughout the research lifecycle.

A central focus of the training is the Data Management Plan (DMP). Participants will learn why DMPs matter, what the main funder requirements are, and how to start developing an effective plan. The course includes an in-depth exploration of the different sections of a DMP, offering guidance on what information to include and how to address common challenges.

The training also covers essential RDM topics that are relevant to all researchers, whether or not they are required to write a DMP. Participants will learn what is involved in collecting and reusing research data, including considerations related to working with people or companies, and handling sensitive data. The course also introduces key principles of data documentation and storing research data using appropriate infrastructure.

Researchers who are already at an advanced stage of their project or approaching its completion may find our Wrapping Up training more suitable for their needs.

Learning outcomes

After attending this training, participants can ...

• develop and complete a Data Management Plan (DMP) by understanding its main sections and requirements;
• collect and process research data responsibly, taking into account relevant ethical and legal considerations;
• document research data effectively, ensuring that data remain understandable and reusable over time;
• store research data using appropriate infrastructure to reduce the risk of data loss and ensure data security.

Competences

An important part of preparing for any further professional step is becoming (more) aware of the competences you have developed and/or want to develop. In the current workshop, the following competences from the UHasselt competency overview are actively dealt with:

• Cluster "information"
  • Analysing
  • Judgement
  • Innovation
• Cluster “problem-solving”
  • Taking initiative
  • Change orientation
  • Identification with organisation
• Cluster “organisation”
  • Planning and organising
  • Monitoring progress

For whom?

• Researchers
• 20 places available

When and where?

• December 3, 2026 - 10:00-12:00
• campus Diepenbeek
  • BSH: CD-D-0-A4
  • HLS: RWS 2.02 Sky room
  • ST: CD-D-0-WET: F0.28

Registration?

• Register here.
• You will receive a calendar invite with all practical information for this course approximately one week beforehand.
• Please cancel your registration at least one week in advance in case you cannot make it by sending an email to rdm@uhasselt.be (cf. cancellation policy).

Acknowledged by Doctoral Schools?

• DS Sciences & Technology: acknowledged as 'Research management' - course/workshop at developing general research skills.
• DS Behavioral Sciences & Humanities: acknowledged as 'Research management & communication skills' - course/workshop aimed at developing research (management) skills.
• DS Health & Life Sciences. For PhD students of the Doctoral School of Health & Life Sciences, a combination of different sessions (adding up to a half/full day) can be acknowledged together as (half) a transferable skills course.
• The training will be added automatically to the doctoral portfolio of the PhD students who signed the attendance list.