UBC Library Research Commons

Workshop: Choosing File Formats for Research Data This practical workshop, delivered by the UBC Library Research Data Management team, explores how selecting the right file formats can support long-term preservation, data sharing, and reuse. Aimed at graduate students, researchers, and staff, the session highlights best practices for choosing formats that align with FAIR data principles. […]

This workshop and resource provides an overview of mapmaking with QGIS, a free and open-source Geographic Information System for analyzing, modifying, and visualizing spatial data. By the end of this short overview, you will: Be able to identify different kinds of spatial data; Understand how GISs work and the advantages of using QGIS; Know when […]

Workshop: Creating README Files for Research Data This hands-on workshop, delivered by the UBC Library Research Data Management team, introduces the importance of README files in documenting research data for long-term access and reuse. Designed for graduate students, researchers, and staff, the session provides practical guidance for creating clear, consistent, and useful data documentation. Participants […]

In this beginner-friendly workshop, you will learn to create simple, static maps to accompany academic publications. You will be introduced to a variety of maps as well as best practices in cartography. This workshop is suited for anyone who wants to make a map of their research area, or whose project involves data with a […]

This intermediate-level workshop will demonstrate how to create thematic maps using QGIS, a free and open-source Geographic Information System (GIS) for analyzing, modifying, and visualizing spatial data. Additionally, participants will learn how to perform queries on spatial data and edit the attribute table. NOTE: Prior to the workshop date, please review our Introduction to Mapmaking […]

Workshop: Optimize Directory Structures for Research Data This practical workshop, delivered by the UBC Library Research Data Management team, focuses on strategies for organizing research data using clear and logical directory structures. Designed for graduate students, researchers, and staff, the session helps participants manage files more effectively to support collaboration, reproducibility, and long-term data stewardship. […]