Research Data Management in Universities: A Comparative Study from the Perspectives of Librarians and Management

Abstract With the research landscape tilting toward a more intensive research, propelled by the power of information and communication technologies, the research community is overwhelmed with tons of research data generated on a daily basis. Research data is hailed as the cornerstone for current and future science discoveries. Hence, key research stakeholders especially research funders and publishers demand proper research data management (RDM) practices. The burden to manage research data has been placed on academic libraries. In light of this, the current study employs questionnaires and interviews to explore the status of RDM at two public university libraries in Malawi. The study unveils that RDM remains a new and emerging concept in the country. However, with librarians involved in some very basic RDM activities, the future is promising. Key challenges interrupting RDM initiatives are exposed and their remedies suggested. Generally, university affiliation has no effect on the key factors affecting RDM initiatives.