Get free DOI from Zenodo: A Step-by-Step Setup

Zenodo is an open-access repository and digital platform that provides a place for researchers, scientists, and scholars to store, share, and preserve their research outputs. It is a free and open platform developed by CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research) to facilitate the sharing and dissemination of a wide range of research materials, including datasets, publications, software, posters, and more. Zenodo is designed to be user-friendly and is particularly valuable for those who need a DOI (Digital Object Identifier) for their research outputs.

Providing Free DOIs through Zenodo: #

Zenodo offers the ability to assign free DOIs to the research outputs that are deposited on the platform. DOIs are persistent and unique identifiers that make it easy to locate and cite specific research materials, even if they are hosted in different locations. Providing free DOIs through Zenodo is a simple and straightforward process. Here’s how it works:

1. Create an Account: #

• To get started with Zenodo, you need to create a user account. You can do this by visiting the Zenodo website and following the registration process.

2. Deposit Your Research Output: #

• Once you have an account, you can start depositing your research outputs. Zenodo accepts a wide range of materials, including datasets, preprints, conference posters, presentations, and more.
• During the deposition process, you will be asked to provide metadata about your research output. This may include the title, authors, description, keywords, and more. Be as descriptive and informative as possible.

3. Set Access and Licensing Options: #

• Zenodo allows you to choose the access level for your content. You can make it openly accessible to everyone, restrict access to specific individuals or groups, or embargo the content for a defined period.
• You also need to specify the licensing terms for your research output. Zenodo supports a variety of open-access licenses, including Creative Commons licenses, which allow you to define how others can use your work.

4. Request a DOI: #

• During the deposition process, you can request a DOI for your research output. Zenodo provides DOIs free of charge to all users. Simply check the option to obtain a DOI when depositing your content.

5. Review and Publish: #

• Review the information you provided, ensure all details are accurate, and then publish your research output on Zenodo. Once published, it will receive a unique DOI.

6. Cite and Share: #

• With the assigned DOI, your research output can now be easily cited in publications, presentations, and other scholarly works. You can share the DOI with others to make your research more discoverable.

7. Maintain and Update: #

• Zenodo allows you to update and version your research outputs, ensuring that the DOI remains connected to the latest and most relevant version of your work.

By providing free DOIs through Zenodo, researchers can enhance the visibility and accessibility of their research materials, making it easier for others to find, cite, and build upon their work. This open and collaborative approach aligns with the principles of open science and fosters knowledge sharing within the research community.