Open access publications are playing an increasingly central role in materials science and engineering. They enable rapid availability of results, increase visibility, and facilitate knowledge transfer between research, development, and industrial application. At the same time, the publication process is complex for many researchers. Differences in subject-specific publication cultures, different licensing models, and uncertainties about legal frameworks often lead to unanswered questions. 

The free short webinar  „Open-Access-Publizieren in der Materialwissenschaft und Werkstofftechnik – Best Practices, Tipps und Services“ on 21 January 2026, addresses these challenges. It is aimed at both researchers and subject specialists and offers a compact introduction to the most important models and strategies of open access publishing. Participants will receive a systematic overview of current publication channels, quality requirements, and services that can support the publication process. 

A central focus is on secondary publication. Many already published works can be made freely accessible again under certain conditions. The webinar shows how to find suitable repositories and what legal requirements apply. It also explains how Creative Commons licenses work, what rights they grant authors and users, and how to select a suitable license. 

In addition to legal and strategic issues, the organizational side will also be examined. This includes the financing of open access publications, particularly with regard to institutional funding programs or services offered by large scientific libraries. The webinar also provides space for individual questions from the participants' everyday work, such as the choice of publication location or quality criteria for scientific journals. 

The webinar is being organized by the Technical Information Library (TIB) and the Saxon State and University Library Dresden (SLUB). Both institutions jointly manage the Specialist Information Service for Materials Science and Materials Engineering, which provides long-term support to researchers in the community. 

The event will be led by two experts, Anita Eppelin (TIB) and Dipl.-Ing. Henriette Wiehl (SLUB), who have many years of experience with publication processes, repositories, and legal issues relating to scientific communication. They will provide both basic guidance and practical recommendations for dealing with open access publications. 

For scientists who want to further develop their publication strategy, the webinar offers a compact opportunity to refresh their knowledge, clarify uncertainties, and plan concrete steps for future publications. 

Register now and secure your place in the free short webinar.