Source: AIMS
Metadata is the backbone of research data management (RDM). It makes data discoverable, understandable, and reusable. But how can metadata be designed in such a way that it is both interoperable across disciplines and practical for use in specific disciplines? This is precisely where the DFG-funded project AIMS 2 (Applying Interoperable Metadata Standards) comes in. In this blog post, we take a closer look at the project and provide insights into its goals and priorities as well as the people involved.
From AIMS 1 to AIMS 2
We already reported on AIMS on the RDM blog in 2020. The foundations for AIMS were laid in the first phase of the project: RDF-compliant, modular metadata profiles were developed and implemented as prototypes in a web platform. You can find another article on AIMS, including usage scenarios, on the RDM blog.
AIMS 2 continues this approach and expands it to include new disciplines and functions. The connection to common electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs) such as eLabFTW or openBIS also plays a central role.
Goals and Focus Areas
The project team is pursuing several focus areas:
- Development and reusability of subject-specific metadata profiles based on SHACL
- Visual modeling and support for complex, composite profiles
- Improvements to the user interface: search functions, drag-and-drop, validation
- Integration into ELNs and RDM services
- Creation of new use cases in physics and materials science
- Provision of learning materials, best practices, and sample profiles
- Stronger networking in NFDI consortia and international initiatives
While AIMS 1 laid the foundations, AIMS 2 brings scaling, integration, and practical relevance.
Who Is Behind the Project?
The consortium combines technological expertise with RDM practice:
- Universität Rostock – Arbeitsgruppe Oberflächen- und Grenzflächenphysik (PSI)
- Fraunhofer Institute for Mechanics of Materials (IWM)
- Department of Microsystems Engineering (IMTEK), Universität Freiburg
- The University and State Library Darmstadt, (ULB)
- IT Center der RWTH Aachen University
- as well as close cooperation with NFDI consortia (e.g., NFDI4ING, NFDI-MatWerk, Base4NFDI, NFDI4Chem) and ELN communities (AG ELN RDM.NRW, Standards4ELN).
AIMS 2 makes it clear that the future of metadata lies in interoperability, modularity, and close collaboration with specialist communities. The result is a platform that supports researchers in different disciplines equally, from modeling and integration to practical application in everyday research.
Learn More
If you have any questions about AIMS or RDM in general, please contact the RDM team. We look forward to hearing from you!
Responsible for the content of this article are Kseniia Dukkart, Moritz Kern and Arlinda Ujkani.
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