Navigating Scholarly Publishing in the Age of Plan S: A Researcher’s Perspective

Welcome to the world of academic publishing amidst the advancements brought about by Plan S. Plan S is a rigorous and ambitious initiative aimed at ensuring that all publicly funded research is freely available to the public. This policy has significant implications for researchers like myself, who often find themselves navigating a complex landscape of funding, open access, and publication practices.

Demand for Open Access: Plan S has brought about a robust discussion around open access, as it mandates that all research funded by specific bodies must be made freely accessible. The underlying principle is to democratize research, make it accessible to all, and promote collaboration across the scientific community. However, not all branches of science have equal access to funding, and this regulation is particularly challenging for researchers in fields like Biology.

My Position in the Academic Hierarchy

Although I have a substantial publication record and rank high on platforms like ResearchGate, most of my work has been entirely unfunded. This has its repercussions on my ability to comply with the requirements set by Plan S.

Publication Challenges: Despite a strong publication record, the lack of funding means that I cannot afford to pay for publication fees required by many open access journals. Additionally, securing financial support for my ongoing research poses a significant challenge, as my institution is more interested in having its name on papers rather than providing funding.

Feasibility and Realities

University Expectations vs. Reality: There is often a disconnect between the ambitions of academic institutions and the practical realities faced by researchers like myself. While universities are keen to highlight the high-quality research being conducted, they often fail to provide the necessary resources and funding required to keep up with these standards.

Strategies and Solutions for Compliance

Alternative Funding Sources: I have explored various alternative funding sources, including pursuing small grants, engaging with private foundations, and leveraging community support. However, these avenues are often limited in scope and number.

Open Access Preprints: In the absence of traditional publication methods, I have resorted to submitting preprints to open access repositories. While this approach allows for early dissemination and potentially greater readership, it still leaves me without the official journal credentials and the recognition that comes with them.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Plan S is undoubtedly a step in the right direction towards making research more accessible and transparent. However, for researchers in fields where funding is limited, the journey towards compliance can be fraught with challenges. It is crucial that both the academic community and funding agencies work together to address these issues and find sustainable solutions that support the aspirations of Plan S.

In sum, while I am committed to adhering to the principles of Plan S, the current reality of academic publishing remains a barrier. Ultimately, the success of this initiative relies on the collective efforts to bridge these gaps and create a more inclusive and equitable research environment.