Short abstract

The Platform for Young Meta-Scientists (PYMS) aims to support early-career researchers who are interested in meta-science. PYMS aims to foster a supportive, international network where early-career meta-scientists can exchange ideas, seek feedback, and build their network.

Long abstract

The Platform for Young Meta-Scientists (PYMS) is an initiative that aims to support early-career researchers (up to five years post-PhD) who are interested in meta-science. Navigating an academic career—especially in meta-research—can be daunting and isolating. PYMS aims to foster a supportive, international network where early-career meta-scientists can exchange ideas, seek feedback, build their network, and stay informed about methodological developments, relevant conferences, workshops, and courses.

We organize discussion and reading groups, host online journal clubs, and hold mini conferences where members present and discuss their research in a constructive environment. We discuss key questions facing early-career meta-scientists, such as whether meta-science is more conflict-prone than other disciplines and how to navigate such challenges. We also explore different pathways for building a career in meta-science and what is needed to sustain it.

As we relaunch PYMS after it went quiet following Covid, we are actively introducing our platform at relevant conferences to expand our reach and connect with broader communities for future collaborations. While our network is currently centered in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, we are expanding globally through virtual platforms such as our Discord server, facilitating international interactions and engagement.

At the Metascience 2025 Conference, we seek to connect with more early-career researchers interested in meta-science, strengthen our international presence, and build a thriving community for the next generation of meta-researchers. We invite all interested colleagues to join our initiative and help shape the future of meta-science together.