Intellectual Property Rights, open science and open questions on research data: a biodiversity science perspective

2026/01/16 by Giuditta Parolini · 1 voice
Business, Management and Accounting · Computer Science · Environmental Science · #Intellectual Property and Patents #International Maritime Law Issues #Research Data Management Practices

paper · pdf · doi:10.3897/rio.12.e184961

openalex publication_date 2026/01/16 · openalex created_date 2026/01/17 · openalex updated_date 2026/05/21

Abstract

This paper discusses Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) on research data and legislations that have a direct impact on access to research data. Ensuring data access is a key requirement in the pursuit of open science and to guarantee that research can benefit society at large. Yet, legal complexities, unclear data rights, third-party IPR may transform what should be straightforward information exchange for the benefit of science and society into a frustrating experience. Examples from biodiversity science are used to illustrate legal issues regarding research data. The discussion focuses on the role legal aspects play in open science and concludes with a set of open questions regarding research data IPR and open science. This contribution is written considering the legal framework for research data in the European Union.

Citations

• Creative Commons Public License (CCPL)

Discussions

• ⚖️ Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and open science laws are creating a complex landscape for biodiversity research. ➡️ This commentary explores how legal hurdles like unclear data rights can turn [bsky, 1 points, 1 comments]

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