Max Kaiser

Background

About Max Kaiser

I am a dedicated professional in research services, cultural heritage, and open science, currently serving as Head of Research and Publication Services at Vienna University Library. With a strong background in digital transformation, I have led numerous initiatives that enhance access to knowledge and foster innovation in academia and the cultural sector. In my current role, I lead several teams that provide essential research services for the University of Vienna. Our focus areas include: Data Management – Overseeing PHAIDRA, the University’s Digital Asset Management System, to ensure seamless access and long-term preservation of digital assets and research data. Open Access – Managing the Institutional Repository (u:scholar) and Open Access Journals, while providing Open Access support, to promote free and global accessibility of research outputs. Social Science Data Excellence – Leading the Austrian Social Science Data Archive (AUSSDA), to enhance the availability and reuse of social science data. Data Stewardship – Coordinating the efforts of the University’s data stewards, to ensure robust data governance and compliance with best practices. Research Insights – Overseeing u:cris, the University’s Research Information System, to provide a comprehensive overview of researchers, publications, collaborations, and funded projects. Analytics & Impact – Managing the University’s bibliometric and scientometric services, to support data-driven research evaluation and strategic decision-making. Before joining the Vienna University Library, I held leadership roles at the Austrian National Library, including Head of Strategy and Innovation, Head of Research and Data Services, and Head of Research and Development. I led the Austrian Books Online project, a cooperation with Google that digitized over public domain books, significantly enhancing access to cultural heritage data for DH research. I also helped shape the library’s strategic vision, emphasizing openness and digital transformation. On a European level, I served as Founding Chair of the Europeana Network Association and was a Governing Board Member of the Europeana Foundation, contributing to the strategic direction of digital heritage initiatives across Europe. Additionally, I was a Board Member of the Open Preservation Foundation, supporting best practices in digital preservation. My work remains centered on supporting researchers, promoting Open Science, and advancing digital research infrastructures, ensuring knowledge remains accessible and preserved for the future.