Management maturity and access to research data at Brazilian federal public universities: a multiple case study

Abstract

This study examines the adoption of the Open Science movement by Brazilian federal public universities, with an emphasis on the management and availability of research data. Access to scientific data is essential for transparency, reproducibility, and the advancement of knowledge, but its implementation still faces institutional, cultural, and technological challenges. The objective of this article is to analyze how federal public universities are adopting Open Science practices, considering aspects such as data governance, organizational culture, scientific data management, and technological infrastructure. The methodology adopted consisted of a qualitative and quantitative approach, using a multiple-case study. Data collection was conducted via a structured questionnaire sent to federal public universities, involving a total of 24 participating institutions. The results indicate that most universities are still in the early stages of implementing formal open data policies. In data governance, few institutions have established standards and monitoring mechanisms. Organizational culture presents challenges in adoption due to a lack of training and incentives. Scientific data management is limited by the absence of guidelines and low adoption of FAIR principles. Technological infrastructure is one of the main challenges, with a shortage of institutional repositories and inadequate security. Finally, it is concluded that the adoption of Open Science practices related to the management and openness of research data is still in its early stages and requires investments in institutional policies, infrastructure, and training so that scientific data management aligns with international guidelines.