E-science, open access, and the social network

Computational and data intensive processes are increasingly driving collaborative research in science and technology. Large amounts of data are being generated in experiments or simulations and require real-time, or near real-time, analysis and visualisation. The results of these evaluations need to be validated and then published quickly and openly in order to facilitate the overall progress of research on a national and international basis. Research is increasingly in large teams and interdisciplinary as many of the major research challenges lie at the boundaries between existing disciplines. A move to open access for peer reviewed publications is gaining traction in the sector. At the same time, communication and dissemination procedures are also utilising non-traditional forms facilitated by new developments in social networks. It is proposed that these elements, when combined, constitute a paradigm shift in the model of research and the dissemination of research results.