Key Insights from the HMC Data Professionals Survey 2024: Enhancing Research Data Management Practices

The Helmholtz Metadata Collaboration (HMC) conducted a comprehensive Data Professionals Survey in 2024 to assess the current state of research data management practices across the Helmholtz Association of German Research Centers. As a number of German large scale facilities are operated by the Helmholtz Association, this study is of particular relevance to the photon and neutron communities represented at the DAPHNE4NFDI conference. Our survey employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection through a detailed questionnaire distributed to data professionals across multiple Helmholtz research centers. The analysis focused on identifying common themes, challenges, and opportunities in research data management, with particular attention to FAIR (meta)data practices, the impact of data policies, professional training and tools related to research data management. The key findings of the survey provide valuable insights into the status quo, gaps, and needs of research data professionals within the Helmholtz Association. These results will inform HMC’s strategy to develop targeted support and resources to enhance research data management practices across the organization. In this poster presented at the DAPHNE4NFDI Annual Meeting 2025, we will highlight selected findings that are particularly relevant to the photon and neutron research community. Our findings are intended to contribute to the ongoing dialogue on improving data management practices and fostering collaboration among data professionals in the field