Easier access to research data: European EOSC network expands

Research data, software and digital analysis tools are often held by different institutions across Europe. The European Open Science Cloud (EOSC) connects these resources to help researchers find and use them more easily. Thirteen additional hubs have now begun operating within the network, supporting collaboration across countries and scientific disciplines.

Researchers do not always need to collect new data or develop their own analysis tools. Suitable resources may already be available at other institutions. Finding them and obtaining access, however, can be time-consuming.

The European Open Science Cloud addresses this challenge by connecting existing datasets, tools and digital services through a European network. It aims to make it easier for researchers to access resources from other institutions, reuse data and work together on scientific questions.

What are EOSC Nodes?

The network connects resources through hubs known as “EOSC Nodes”. These bring together research data and digital services from participating organisations and make them accessible through the wider network. A node may, for example, connect resources from a particular country or scientific discipline.

Rather than storing everything in one central location, EOSC links resources provided by different organisations. Shared technical standards help their data and services work together.

The 13 newly operational nodes mark the first expansion of the network beyond the existing EOSC EU Node. They are among 27 nodes joining the federation through two waves in 2025 and 2026.

How does the network benefit researchers?

A research team investigating the effects of drought, for example, might need environmental data from several countries and suitable software to analyse it. EOSC aims to make these resources easier to find and combine.

The network supports fields ranging from health and food to physical sciences, engineering, environmental research and the humanities. Easier access to high-quality, machine-actionable data and computing resources also supports the use of artificial intelligence in science.

More resources and services to follow

The expansion was a central focus of the EOSC Symposium, held in Florence from 14 to 16 October 2026. The next phase will bring additional nodes, datasets and services into the network. Researchers can contribute their needs, experiences and feedback through the EOSC User Forum.

Would you like to use existing research data and digital tools in your work? Explore the European Open Science Cloud and the EOSC EU Node Resource Hub.