Building capacity in imaging data management
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Effective management of imaging data is critical to ensuring reproducibility, accessibility, and long-term value of image-based biological research. However, good data management remains a major challenge across imaging facilities, with lack of standardised practices and limited training opportunities. Additionally, there is a need to upskill Research Technical Professionals (RTPs) in areas such as image data stewardship, as well as opening new career pathways. Here, we report on an approach to identify and design a training curriculum for imaging data stewardship in the UK bioimaging community. An initial survey captured current practices, challenges, and training requirements. These findings were presented at a community event, where structured feedback activities further identified pain points across the imaging data life cycle, and prioritised training needs. These consultations resulted in a three-module training framework covering data management and metadata, data storage and sharing, and public repository submission. The iterative approach provided technical guidance for curriculum design and community input on delivery models, target audiences, and incentives for engagement. This work highlights the need for training resources that address critical skill gaps, increase RTP visibility and recognition, and improve the quality of image data management.
Source: Journal of Microscopy
DOI: 10.1111/jmi.70078
Authors: Silvia Melina Velasquez, Georgina Fletcher, Jean‐Marie Burel, Maddy Parsons, Jason Swedlow, Matthew Hartley, Josh Moore, Seema Bagia, Alison Beckett, James H. Crichton, Stephen John Cross, Daniel M. Foulkes, James Grimshaw, Marie Held, Kenneth Ho, Martin Jones, Martin Lee, Marco Marcello, Stefania Marcotti, Robert Markus, Gail McConnell, Steven G. Thomas, Steven J. West, Ann Wheeler, Aybüke Küpcü Yoldaş
Institutions: European Bioinformatics Institute, Royal Microscopical Society, University of Dundee, King's College London, German BioImaging – Gesellschaft für Mikroskopie und Bildanalyse, University of Nottingham, University of Liverpool, University of Exeter, University of Bristol, Newcastle University, The Francis Crick Institute, Institute of Genetics and Cancer, University of Edinburgh, University of Strathclyde, University of Birmingham, Sainsbury Wellcome Centre, University College London
Language: English
Subfield: Information Systems
Field: Computer Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,760
OpenAlex ID: W7140160766