Citizen science is the active participation of any person, without necessarily having a scientific background, in different stages of the research process: from observing and collecting data to formulating hypotheses or disseminating results. By applying the scientific method, society contributes to generating new knowledge and solving problems. At the CSIC, we see this scientific approach as a way of opening science up to society by promoting inclusion, access to knowledge and the exchange of expertise. It offers a path towards mutual enrichment for both the scientific community and the public.
CSIC is one of Europe’s leading public institutions in the development of citizen science projects. Its thematic diversity and nationwide presence place it in a strategic position to lead initiatives open to anyone interested in contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge.
With this objective, and under the coordination of the Deputy Vice-Presidency for Scientific Culture and Citizen Science (VACC), the CSIC has a Citizen Science Office responsible for developing the institution’s Citizen Science strategy, with the support of the Citizen Science Working Group, which is made up of experts leading flagship projects in this field. In addition, it establishes collaborative lines with a wide range of stakeholders from the science, technology and innovation system, as well as from civil society, with a particular focus on local actors, community associations, universities and foundations.
In this way, CSIC fulfils its commitment to a more open and participatory science, fostering cooperation and the adoption of good practices.
Documents of interest
CSIC Citizen Science Projects
Nearly one hundred initiatives seek to involve the public in a wide variety of ways. CSIC citizen science projects cover many fields of knowledge and are carried out across different geographical areas. Nearly 40% are considered citizen science observatories, one of the fields in which the CSIC is internationally recognised
Guide to Developing Citizen Science Projects
The Brief Guide to Citizen Science (CSIC, 2022) provides information and resources for anyone interested in starting a citizen science project, whether or not they have previous experience. It includes practical guidance, methodological recommendations, insights into the diversity and impact of citizen science, and support tools to facilitate the design and development of new projects.
Citizen Science Working Group
Made up of representatives from major CSIC citizen science projects, this group reflects on the growing importance of public participation in science and helps develop good practices to promote citizen science within the institution.
Ibercivis Foundation
CSIC is one of the trustees of Ibercivis, a non-profit foundation dedicated to promoting citizen science, volunteer computing and collective intelligence. Ibercivis is a key player in the national and international ecosystem, thanks to its role in generating knowledge about these practices and its coordinating work through the Spanish Citizen Science Observatory.