The European Data Infrastructure (EUDAT) Collaborative Data Infrastructure (CDI) convened its Council Meeting on 8-9 November 2023, in Amsterdam, Netherlands where a new Head of the EUDAT Secretariat was endorsed along with new board figures elected.
Chaired by Per Öster (CSC), the meeting marked a pivotal moment in the organization's governance as key positions were filled and strategic priorities were discussed. The EUDAT Council endorsed Yann Le Franc as the new Head of the EUDAT CDI Secretariat.
“We are very excited to have Yann joining EUDAT. with his deep insights in research data management and entrepreneurial mindset we can with confidence together enter the second decade of EUDAT”, said Per.
Commenting on his endorsement, Head of the EUDAT CDI Secretariat Yann Le Franc said, “I am delighted to be part of the EUDAT team again and to have the opportunity to help shape the future of EUDAT as Head of the Secretariat. I am honoured and grateful for the trust that EUDAT's CDI partners have placed in me to lead its outstanding activities.”
During the Council Meeting, Jos van Wezel from KIT was elected as the new Chair of the EUDAT Executive Board, after serving as Acting Chair. Joining him in steering the organisation is Claudia Behnke from SURF who was elected as Vice Chair. Wim Hugo from DANS also secured a position as a Board Member, contributing to the diverse expertise that shapes EUDAT's initiatives.
Commenting on the election of the new Executive Board figures and ways forward, Jos said, “With the outcome of the Council decisions, the Board can further plot the future direction for EUDAT in collaboration with the Secretariat and its new head Yann LeFranc.”
A significant moment of recognition occurred during the meeting as the Council expressed gratitude to Hannes Thiemann from DKRZ for his commendable contributions during his term as a Board Member, which has now concluded.
The EUDAT Council plays a crucial role in overseeing the strategic direction of the organisation, providing guidance on major decisions, and ensuring the alignment of EUDAT's activities with its mission and vision. The Council comprises representatives from the participating organisations in the EUDAT CDI, forming a collaborative and inclusive governance structure.
During the Council Meeting, the EUDAT Secretariat provided an insightful presentation on the major developments and activities of EUDAT, showcasing the organisation's achievements as well as areas of further work. The priorities for the upcoming years were also discussed.
The outcomes of this Council Meeting underscore EUDAT's commitment to effective governance, collaboration, and the continual enhancement of its infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of the European research community. As EUDAT moves forward under the leadership of the Head of the Secretariat, the newly elected Executive Board figures as well as those that are continuing their term, the organisation remains dedicated to fostering a collaborative environment for data-driven innovation and research.