The 18th BIG Forum was held in Beijing Institute of Genomics (BIG), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) on September 12, 2019. Dr. Simon Hodson, executive director of CODATA, was invited to give a report entitled “Data for the Planet: driving solutions for FAIR data and cross-domain science”.

Dr. Simon Hodson draw forth the opportunities and challenges in the age of big data via the history and current situation of international prototype kilogram and International System of Units (SI). Then, principles for scientific data management and stewardship, FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable) were explained.

He also introduced the main function of CODATA, including data policies, data science, data skills, data good practice, and encouraged relevant scientific institutions for further engagement. At the end of the report, both the guest and the audience had an in-depth exchange of views.

Deputy director of academic committee, on behalf of BIG, prof. LIU Jiang gave a warm welcome and awarded a commemorative cup to Dr. Simon Hodson.

CODATA, which was set up in 1966, is the Committee on Data of the International Science Council (ISC). CODATA exists to promote global collaboration to advance Open Science and to improve the availability and usability of data for all areas of research. The Chinese Academy of Science joined CODATA as representative of China in June 1984. Dr. Simon Hodson has been Executive Director of CODATA since August 2013. He is an expert on data policy issues and research data management, and has contributed to influential reports on Current Best Practice for Research Data Management Policies and to the Science International Accord on Open Data in a Big Data World.

Dr. Simon Hodson was giving a report(Image by ZHANG Xiaoliang)

Prof. LIU Jiang awarded a commemorative cup to Dr. Simon Hodson (Image by ZHANG Xiaoliang)