Discover Open Research with the Universities of Bath, Bristol, Cardiff and Exeter at GW4 Open Research Week 2026
We’re delighted to announce the launch of GW4 Open Research Week 2026, a celebration of open research across the GW4 Alliance: University of Bath, University of Bristol, Cardiff University and University of Exeter, and beyond.
Taking place from 20-24 April 2026, GW4 Open Research Week 2026 will bring together researchers, research enablers, professional services colleagues, and students to explore how open research practices can enhance cultures, transparency, collaboration, research integrity and real-world impact.
Open to all, the week will feature a dynamic programme of workshops and panel discussions, showcasing innovative approaches across topics including open science and research assessment reform; open practices and methodologies in research design; improving and expanding practices in the arts, humanities and social sciences; the Hidden Research Excellence Framework; and rewarding open research.
Led for this year by Cardiff University, participants will hear from leading voices across the GW4 institutions and beyond, sharing everything from policy to practical insights and inspiring examples of open research in action.
The week’s keynote session, delivered by Science Europe, will highlight the findings of a three-year consultation with its public research funding and performing member organisations, exploring the intersection of open science and research assessment reform.
One of the week’s flagship events will also be the GW4 Open Research Prize Award Event, which will take place online on Wednesday 22 April, and will showcase the Open Research Prize submissions from across GW4, with prizes awarded to the winning entries across three different categories.
GW4 Alliance Director, Melanie Knetsch, said: “Collaboration, transparency and innovation remain at the heart of the GW4 Alliance’s mission, and we continue to champion best practice in open research. GW4 Open Research Week 2026 provides an important opportunity to bring together our communities to explore, share and celebrate pioneering approaches to open research.”
Register to attend
Whether you are new to open research, already embedding open practices in your work, or simply curious to learn more, GW4 Open Research Week 2026 is open to everyone and offers opportunities to connect, learn and contribute to a more open and inclusive research culture.
For further details, including the full programme and registration information, please visit the GW4 Open Research Week webpages.
Collaboration, transparency and innovation remain at the heart of the GW4 Alliance’s mission, and we continue to champion best practice in open research.
GW4 Open Research Week 2026 provides an important opportunity to bring together our communities to explore, share and celebrate pioneering approaches to open research.”
