Research Data Management in Citizen Science: A Bibliometric Analysis

ASM Sc. J., 21(1), 2026

Published on February 16, 2026

https://doi.org/10.32802/asmscj.2026.0187

Author: Cik Ramlah Che Jaafar, Asmadi Mohammed Ghazali, Mohd Ikhwan Ismail

Abstract

Citizen Science (CS) is increasingly recognised in the scientific community due to its ability to generate large volumes of data that require effective management. Libraries play a vital role in supporting CS by acting as central hubs for CS programs, offering Research Data Management (RDM) services, and providing training for researchers and citizen scientists. This paper examines research trends in RDM and CS through a bibliometric analysis of 1,439 publications retrieved from the Scopus database between 2008 and 2024. The data were analysed using Microsoft Excel and Harzing’s Publish or Perish. Results showed that journal articles were the most common publication type, with English as the predominant language. Biological Conservation emerged as the most influential journal, while “Citizen Science” was the most frequently used keyword, followed by “RDM”, “Biodiversity and Conservation”, and “Data Quality Control”. Scientific disciplines dominated the publication output, particularly after 2021. Callaghan, C.T., was identified as the most productive author, with the United States leading in contributions and the Center National de la Recherche Scientifique being the top institution. A total of 31,544 citations were recorded. This study provides valuable insights for researchers, librarians, policymakers, and funding bodies to explore emerging trends, collaboration opportunities, and strategic directions in CS research.

Keywords: academic libraries, Bibliometrics, citizen science, research data management