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Paper short abstract:

Based on fieldwork with (bio)chemistry laboratories in sub-Sahara Africa, this presentation examines the global inequalities in research capabilities that lead scientists opt not to share their research data with other scientists.

Paper long abstract:

'Open Data' has recently emerged as a prominent label for renewed attempts to promote greater exchange in science. As part of such efforts, the release of data is often portrayed as mutually beneficial: individual scientists accrue greater prominence while at the same time fostering communal knowledge. This assumption, however, is not unproblematic. Based on fieldwork with (bio)chemistry laboratories in sub-Sahara Africa, this presentation examines a variety of reasons why scientists opt for closure over openness. We argue that the heterogeneity of research environments calls into question many of the presumptions in Open Data. Inequalities in research environments can mean that moves towards sharing and openness create binds and dilemmas. These observations suggest that if scientists in low-resourced research settings are to enjoy the increased credibility that Open Data offers, more must be done. Indeed, those promoting openness in data sharing must critically examine current research and funding structures that continue to perpetuate these inequalities. This presentation will conclude by suggesting a novel approach facilitating openness in research by enabling scientists to address their day-to-day demands. Such a starting basis provides an alternative but vital link between the aspirations for science aired today and the everyday challenges of undertaking research in low-resourced environments.