UK Catalysis Hub and PSDI explore future collaboration on research data
13 March 2026 | Research Complex at Harwell UK Catalysis Hub, PSDI
Researchers from the UK Catalysis Hub and the Physical Sciences Data Infrastructure (PSDI) came together on 13 March 2026 for a joint workshop focused on one key question: How can better use of data support catalysis research across the UK. The workshop brought together expertise from catalysis, data science, and research infrastructure to share perspectives and explore where collaboration could have the greatest impact.
Why data matters
Catalysis research is producing more data than ever before. From experiments to simulations, these datasets have the potential to unlock new insights.
However, participants agreed that data are often hard to combine, reuse, or carry forward. Better coordination could help researchers spend less time managing data and more time using it.
PSDI researchers shared examples of how shared infrastructure could help link different types of data and make them easier to work with.
Key opportunities discussed
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- Making research data easier to reuse and build upon
- Improving consistency and quality across datasets
- Supporting new data‑driven and AI‑enabled approaches
- Reducing duplication of effort across the community
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Where collaboration could start
Rather than trying to solve everything at once, the group highlighted the value of starting small and learning by doing. Two priority areas were identified, as outlined below. These focused examples could help demonstrate benefits quickly and guide wider adoption.
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- NMR spectroscopy, as a widely used technique with strong potential for shared approaches
- Computational catalysis, where clearer data descriptions can improve transparency and reuse
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Skills, people and next steps
The workshop highlighted that training and support will be just as important as technical solutions. Giving researchers practical data skills, supported by accessible online resources and discipline‑specific activities, will be key to making new approaches work. The discussions also showed strong alignment between the UK Catalysis Hub and PSDI, helping shape future collaboration towards a more connected and sustainable approach to catalysis research data in the UK.
