Institutional innovation in open science

Institutional innovation in open science: implementation of the Open Science Center at Fluminense Federal University (NuCA-UFF)

Abstract

Objective: This article aims to describe the process of establishing and implementing the Open Science Center at the Federal University of Fluminense (NuCA-UFF), highlighting its institutional trajectory and the strategies adopted to consolidate Open Science. Method: This is an experience report with a qualitative and descriptive approach, based on a literature review of international and institutional references describing initiatives implemented, training activities, and the organizational structure established between 2003 and 2026. Results: The results presented indicate that the implementation of Open Science at UFF has been occurring progressively and is structured in four phases: (1) consolidation of Open Access; (2) mobilization and international alignment; (3) institutionalization, with the creation of the Working Group for the implementation of NuCA-UFF; and (4) prospects for expansion through the creation of specific administrative orders and regulations, and submission to UFF Governance and CEPEX, focusing on data management, community capacity building, and citizen science. Conclusions: It is concluded that NuCA-UFF represents an institutional reconfiguration that integrates governance, infrastructure, services, and training, in line with international recommendations. This experience demonstrates a gradual and potentially applicable model for implementing citizen science, contributing to the strengthening of citizen science in the Brazilian context, to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the commitments of the 2030 Agenda, generating social impact and reaffirming science as a public good.