Dr Rorie Edmunds1
1Datacite, Welfengarten 1 B,, Germany
The ability to distinguish physical samples uniquely and continuously through Persistent Identifier (PID) metadata is vital for: (a) interoperability among data systems, (b) integration of physical samples with their descriptions, and (c) enabling search and discovery. Originally developed as a PID system for Geoscience samples, and named the International Geo Samples Number, the core purpose of the IGSN ID is to connect research activities and objects in a fully transparent and traceable way. Application of the IGSN ID has since evolved to other scientific fields that rely on physical samples and collections, which is reflected in its recent renaming to the International *Generic* Sample Number.
Since 2011, the IGSN ID service has been governed by the IGSN Implementation Organization (the IGSN e.V.), which supports the long-term global adoption of PIDs for physical samples, as well as associated practices and standards. In October 2021, the IGSN e.V. announced a partnership with DataCite, whereby DataCite is providing the IGSN ID registration services and supporting technology to ensure the ongoing sustainability of the IGSN ID infrastructure services. The IGSN e.V. and DataCite are fostering a ‘Community of Communities of Practice’ across research domains to support development and promotion of standardized methods for identifying, citing, and locating physical samples.
This presentation will provide an update on the IGSN–DataCite partnership, both the newly released DataCite service for registering IGSN IDs, as well as efforts to increase sample community engagement, develop sample identifier practice standards, and scale adoption of sample PIDs globally.
Biography:
Rorie leads the partnership between DataCite and IGSN e.V. His focus initially is to ensure existing IGSN Members and IDs smoothly transition under the DataCite framework. More generally, he is responsible for driving adoption of PIDs for physical samples, advocacy activities to scale samples community engagement, and the development of sample PID practice standards. Based in Tokyo, Rorie has 10 years’ experience of coordinating international initiatives and scaling communities globally. Before joining DataCite, he was Executive Director of ISC’s World Data System, and Head of Secretariat of CoreTrustSeal. Rorie’s research background is highly multidisciplinary. His first degree is Mathematics, and he holds a Ph.D. in Structural Geology.