Synergy in Life Sciences - Joint strategies and services for national and European collaboration between NFDI consortia

There are currently 26 domain-specific consortia in the National Research Data Infrastructure (NFDI), eight of which are in the field of life sciences: DataPLANT [1], [2], FAIRagro [3], [4], GHGA [5], [6], NFDI4Biodiversity [7], [8], NFDI4BIOIMAGE [9], [10], NFDI4Health [11], [12], NFDI4Immuno [13], [14] and NFDI4Microbiota [15], [16]. These consortia address key aspects of research data management in their respective domains of life sciences. Various consortia clusters actively pursue the shared vision of "oneNFDI" through collaborative activities. A few examples highlight the growing formalisation of these interactions: a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in 2024 between the 'biodata consortia' NFDI4Biodiversity, NFDI4Microbiota and DataPLANT [17] and between the health-data focused consortia NFDI4Health and GHGA [18]. The consortia of the Biodata Interest Group agreed on joint activities based on similarities in data types, scientific methods and common infrastructures. The biomedical consortia GHGA, NFDI4BIOIMAGE, NFDI4Health, NFDI4Immuno and NFDI4Microbiota also identified key topics for collaboration at a first joint Biomed workshop in November 2024 [19] and have been in regular dialogue since then. Additionally, all consortia are part of the Geo-Chem-Life Science Helpdesk Cluster [20], facilitating interdisciplinary user support. This workshop builds on these and other common initiatives and provides a forum for the systematic development of joint lines of action within the life sciences consortia. The aim is to make synergies visible at national and European level and to agree on initial lines of action to shape closer strategic and operational collaboration. Topics to be addressed: ● What are the key challenges for integrated and interdisciplinary research in the life sciences? ● How can engagement within the designated research communities be strengthened? ● Where are the overlaps in services, infrastructures or standards? ● Which topics are suitable for coordinated activities or joint offerings? ● How can the visibility of our NFDI services be increased on different levels - e.g., towards scientific communities and at local institutions, in European initiatives (ELIXIR, EOSC) or political stakeholders? ● How can funding bodies be engaged to support consolidation and standardization in the field by clearly communicating current challenges and ensuring they are reflected in future funding programmes? The workshop is designed as a moderated plenary discussion. After a short introduction by representatives of the three clusters (Biodata Interest Group, Biomed cluster, Bio-Geo-Chem Helpdesk cluster), key areas of cooperation will be presented and discussed together. The aim is not only to make existing collaborations more visible, but also to identify the need for new collaborations, possibly also with external partners. As a result of the workshop, first lines of action will be identified to further enhance cross-consortia coordination and consolidation of our activities across different networks - not only within Life Science consortia but also across national and European activities and projects. The workshop is aimed at representatives from all life science disciplines who wish to contribute to the discussion on possible synergies and cross-cutting collaborations.