The Queensland Research Software Developers Forum – Connecting Members of a Dispersed Community
Mark Crowe1, Paula Martinez2 1QCIF, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia2ARDC, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
Abstract
Research Software Development is an often underappreciated field, yet one that provides critical support for the advancement of research. Research software developers often work in small groups or individually, with limited opportunities to learn from and engage with peers. Straddling the boundary between academic and professional roles, they also face challenges with career progression and recognition.
The ARDC has established a research software agenda with one target outcome being to support research software creators to access the skills, support and recognition they need to build meaningful and fulfilling careers. QCIF proposed emulating this model within its membership cohort and with other local research organisations to help tackle some of the challenges faced by research software developers.
QCIF and ARDC collaborated to host an in-person forum for research software developers from across South-East Queensland. The Queensland Research Software Developers Forum provided a platform for research software developers, scientific programmers, and research software engineers to connect and collaborate.
The event fostered a community where dispersed experts could network, share their knowledge, and exchange best practices. Over sixty people attended the one-day forum, representing nine different organisations and nearly thirty research and support groups.
Half of the participating groups delivered presentations highlighting their activities, while an unconference-style discussion session allowed participants to discuss topics of particular interest and to explore potential collaboration opportunities.
The diversity of attendees and their enthusiasm and willingness to connect confirmed the value of working towards creating a vibrant community of research software developers in our region.
Biography
Dr Mark Crowe is the Skills Development Manager at QCIF, and leads a team of eResearch Analysts and trainers providing support in digital research skills to researchers across Queensland.
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9514-2487
Dr Paula Andrea Martinez is the Software Project Coordinator at the ARDC. Her work supports the ARDC Software Program for Australia leading to better research software recognition. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8990-1985