HMC Conference 2026

28.04.2026 – 30.04.2026

Metadata in Action

How does better metadata drive better science?

The Helmholtz Metadata Collaboration (HMC) warmly invites you to the HMC Conference 2026, taking place 28–30 April 2026 at the Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (German Cancer Research Center, DKFZ) in Heidelberg, Germany. Under the theme “Metadata in Action,” the conference will explore how metadata generates real scientific impact across disciplines and infrastructures.

Infrastructure providers, data stewards, researchers, and developers come together to exchange ideas, showcase innovative solutions, and discuss how metadata actively contributes to data quality, interoperability, and research excellence.


Why Should You Attend?

The HMC Conference 2026 offers a dynamic platform for interdisciplinary collaboration and inspiration. Whether you manage data, develop tools, or conduct research, this is your opportunity to see how metadata practices make science better.

By attending, you will:

  • Gain Insights: Learn about the latest developments, tools, and best practices in metadata management.

  • Engage in Hands-On Learning: Participate in interactive sessions and workshops designed for practical exchange.

  • Expand Your Network: Connect with experts, thought leaders, and peers from the Helmholtz Association and beyond.


What’s on the Agenda?

The conference program includes:

  • Talks: Present your research or practical experiences to a broad audience.

  • Posters & Pitches: Share your ideas in concise and interactive formats.

  • Demos: Demonstrate tools, services, or prototypes live.


Conference Themes

Key topics include:

  • Software Interoperability for (Meta)data Acquisition

  • From Minimum Requirements to FAIR and AI-Ready Metadata

  • Empowering Research Communities: Turning Metadata into Action

  • Semantics in Practice: Domain & Application Ontologies

  • Advancing FAIR Metadata with AI

Join us in Heidelberg to explore how metadata is not just managed – it’s making a difference.


Details:
All details about the conference can be found here: https://events.geomar.de/e/HMC-Conference_2026

Registration
Registration will open towards the end of the year.