Call for Volunteers: TOP Guidelines Advisory Board and Preregistration Template Evaluation Working Group

Are you passionate about promoting transparency and openness in scientific research? The Center for Open Science (COS) is currently seeking volunteers for two opportunities. We seek colleagues to join (1) the Transparency and Openness Promotion (TOP) Guidelines Advisory Board and (2) the Preregistration Template Evaluation Working Group.

Transparency and Openness Promotion (TOP) Guidelines Advisory Board

The TOP Guidelines Advisory Board is responsible for providing guidance and oversight for the development, implementation, and dissemination of the TOP Guidelines. These guidelines are designed to encourage transparency and openness in scientific research by providing researchers with a framework for adopting best practices in their research.

Volunteers who are interested in joining the TOP Guidelines Advisory Board should have a strong understanding of scientific research practices and a demonstrated commitment to promoting transparency and openness. Expert knowledge of some of the following areas is required: open data, code, and materials; data citation practices; reporting guidelines, preregistration in basic or preclinical sciences; replication research; or Registered Reports. Experience in implementing policy in areas of publishing, funding, or hiring practices is desired. 

Members of the Advisory Board will have the opportunity to engage with leading researchers in the field and to shape the development and implementation of the TOP Guidelines.

Preregistration Template Evaluation Working Group

The Preregistration Template Evaluation Working Group is responsible for evaluating preregistration templates for research studies. These templates are designed to encourage researchers to preregister their research designs, thereby increasing transparency and openness in the research process.

Volunteers who are interested in joining the Preregistration Template Evaluation Working Group should have experience with research design and data analysis, and a demonstrated commitment to promoting transparency and openness in scientific research. Applicants for the working group will be evaluated based on knowledge of and experience with registration workflows, preregistration and registration templates, and research reporting guidelines.

Members of the Working Group will have the opportunity to engage with leading researchers in the field and to help shape the development of preregistration templates that promote best practices in scientific research.

We seek representation from researchers in diverse research disciplines, varying career stages, different world regions, and demographic groups that are underrepresented in academic research for both positions. 

Review of applications is rolling, but apply or nominate a colleague before May 31, 2024 for best consideration. Volunteers should be able to commit to regular meetings and actively participate in the development and implementation of the TOP Guidelines or preregistration templates.

As a volunteer, you will have the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the advancement of scientific research and to help promote transparency and openness in the field. Join us today!