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Short Abstract

In the Romanian context, the role of the ambassador is threefold: to promote citizen science among the general public and within academic and research environments, to collect information on past and ongoing projects, and to connect dispersed researchers and groups in order to foster cooperation.

Abstract

In 2023, when the Ambassadors' mission began, there was no particular infrastructure for citizen science in Romania and very few dispersed citizen science projects or initiatives. The launch of Romania’s first Citizen Science platform by Babes-Bolyai University marked a major step in building a national community for participatory research.

Now the platform serves as a central hub where researchers and citizens can connect, share resources, and grow new initiatives. What began with presentations across university faculties to spark interest has now evolved into an internationally (UNESCO) and nationally recognized effort, supported by the national executive agency dealing with the implementation of open science policies (citizen science included) in Romania (Executive Agency for Higher Education, Research, Development and Innovation - UEFISCDI).

Since then, more university groups have focused on the citizen science component, with another platform already running in the western part of the country, developed by the West University of Timisoara. This is a signal of increasing institutional commitment to citizen science in Romania.

Despite the initial success and the growing institutional support, significant challenges remain. Limited human resources, lack of tailored training and insufficient funding constrain the ability to scale up activities and sustain long-term projects. At the same time, specific motivational factors affect citizen engagement, with many initiatives struggling to attract and retain volunteers. These obstacles highlight the need for stronger investment, dedicated staff, and continuous outreach to build a resilient citizen science ecosystem in Romania.