“I think it is important that MDU, as a collaborative University, contributes to Open Access”

The University Library interviewed MDU's new Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Doctoral Education, Paul Pettersson. We asked him why he thinks Open Access (OA) is important and why we at MDU should strive to publish as much as possible in OA.

Why is it important for MDU to publish as much as possible in OA?

It’s essential that MDU publishes in OA to give as many people as possible the chance to access the research findings that we produce. The basic idea of OA is that research results should be available to research colleagues, decision-making officers, industry and the general public. I think it is important that MDU, as a collaborative University, contributes to OA because a significant part of our research is conducted in collaboration with the private and public sectors.

Why is OA essential for you?

OA is important because it gives more people the opportunity to access and assess research findings free of charge, which contributes to an increase in the quality of research results. Furthermore, the public is welcomed and included in a scholarly context where they can access scientific publications. It’s simply a question of quality and also an issue of justice and democracy overall.

What are the advantages of publishing your research in OA?

There are many benefits of publishing in OA. OA publishing can lead to wider and faster dissemination of research, which in turn leads to an increase in the efficiency of the research. For the individual researcher, their visibility increases, and as more open publishing creates the opportunity to reuse research findings, new innovative ideas can be created more quickly.

What advice would you give your colleagues with regard to OA publishing?

There is a lot to think about before an OA publishing takes place but there is great support available. I would advise you to contact the University Library for guidance in OA in its entirety but also for help with the funding of an OA publication.

Any final words about OA?

We are currently in the midst of a transition to a more open scientific landscape, where OA is an important aspect. It is important both for the individual researcher, and for the growth of innovation and knowledge, but it is also a way to include the public and give them access to scholarly information.