On 5–6 November 2024, members and staff met in Bremen for the second GFBio seminar to discuss key questions about data services, network structures, and communication. Short presentations, feedback rounds, and breakout sessions offered space for reflection and new ideas – with a shared goal: shaping GFBio’s path towards 2030!
Highlights from Two Inspiring Days
Services: Feedback, Roadmaps, Visions
In focus: Data Submission Service and the (future) delivery of data to the GFBio-Portal. Key developments:
- The Submission Service is evolving into a modular platform with customizable submission profiles. Integration with Wikidata and ORCID is on the roadmap.
- A new aggregator tool for connecting data centers to the GFBio portal was presented and well received. Interest in active participation was evident among the community. A new "Search and Harvesting" working group is forming to support this transition.
“Ask Me Anything” – Transparency Meets Engagement
Openness is key: Two AMA sessions discussed not only GFBio services, but also the role, public image, and future of the association. It was evident that GFBio members are motivated to get involved - from the strategic direction of the association to very practical service issues. The exchange of experiences between data centers, service developers, and association members from NFDI4Bioimage, universities, and non-university research was particularly valuable
Evolving Communication: A New Look for GFBio
Starting in 2025, GFBio will relaunch its website and introduce a news blog to improve visibility and communication. The community supported this step and emphasized the need for regular, authentic content. Additional feedback included:
- Strong support for a new LinkedIn presence (and leaving platform X)
- Approval for the new news blog, but also a reminder: regular posts are crucial!
Working Groups: Structured Collaboration
A major goal of the seminar was to establish sustainable working structures within GFBio e.V. The newly introduced working group (AG) model enables members and partners to focus on specific topics. Already in progress:
- WG Search and Harvesting – new strategies for of indexing
- WG Outreach – developing a new communications strategy
- WG Data Centres – now formalized with a joint charter
Next Steps: A Strong Foundation for the Future
Well positioned
The 2024 seminar laid important groundwork for a strategic, visible, and collaborative GFBio community. The road ahead includes improving services, securing third-party funding, and increasing visibility in the scientific landscape. The strong commitment and energy from all participants made clear: GFBio is moving forward with a purpose.
To be continued in 2026
Special thanks go to the organizers, moderators, and all attendees who made the event a lively and productive space. The community is already looking ahead to the next GFBio seminar in spring 2026 – possibly in combination with the annual general meeting. In the meantime, smaller working meetings in 2025 will help maintain momentum.