pyOpenSci supports scientists in solving some of scientific Python’s most challenging problems

pyOpenSci is a vibrant community of practice, empowering scientists to solve the world’s most pressing challenges by making open science tools and skills more accessible. By working together, we accelerate discovery with open-source software and workflows that are easier to share and build upon.

Founded in 2018, pyOpenSci’s mission is to cultivate a diverse, inclusive community that simplifies Python for scientific data processing. Our goal is to take the confusion out of using Python so scientists can focus on their research. We collaborate to create online resources and training that build technical skills, helping scientists confidently contribute to open-source projects and advance open science. We also run an open peer review process of scientific software. 

Our core pillars are:

• Open peer review of scientific software: We ensure that scientists get the credit and recognition they deserve for developing scientific Python tools. Our rigorous, community-led peer review process not only highlights the importance of these contributions but also ensures that the software is reliable, well-maintained, and trusted by the broader scientific community. This process directly supports the advancement of open science by enabling scientists to find and use vetted tools that enhance their workflows.

• Training and open educational resources: We believe that accessible training is key to making open science tools usable. All of our tutorials and resources are developed through a collaborative, multi-stage community review process. Tutorials are created by the pyOpenSci team or community members, and then reviewed by the tool maintainers to ensure the content is accurate and up-to-date. After this, they undergo several rounds of community feedback to ensure they are usable, accessible, and relevant. These tutorials are part of our open educational resources, helping scientists confidently navigate the Python ecosystem and focus on their research.

• Our partnerships with both domain-specific scientific Python and open science communities streamline the process of reviewing and maintaining software. These communities can leverage our established review process, reducing the need to develop and maintain their own software guidelines. By working together, we ensure that tools meet the highest standards of usability and reliability, empowering researchers across fields to use them in their open science workflows with confidence.

YOUR SUPPORT:

Your contribution helps us expand our open source educational resources and support the maintainers behind the scientific Python tools scientists rely on. With your help, we can run peer review, create new cutting-edge training materials, and even sponsor students to attend essential training that equips them with the skills needed to contribute to open science. We depend on the generosity of individuals and organizations to continue this work and expand our impact. Whether you choose to make a one-time donation or support us regularly—weekly, monthly, or annually—your support drives meaningful change in the scientific community.

• $10 could assist with our community-building and communication efforts.
• $20 might support our growing scientific Python open peer review process.
• $50 could help us keep a tutorial or page in our packaging guide online and current.
• $100 might enable us to mentor a new reviewer or editor in support of our peer review program.
• $500 could be used a scientist to one of our open science training or could assist with onboarding and collaborating with volunteer translators.
• $1,000 might support sending several learners to a training and leading trainings at workshops and conferences.

pyOpenSci is fiscally sponsored by Community Initiatives.

Checks can be mailed to:

Community Initiatives (pyOpenSci)

PO Box 45515

San Francisco, CA 94145-0515