In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, researchers must constantly adapt to new tools, meet increasing demands on visibility, and navigate rapid technological shifts. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed. To support faculty research staff, the Science Library has launched Quick Bites for Researchers - a digital knowledge series designed to provide clear, concise insights on key topics.
This series offers short, engaging lunchtime sessions where faculty research staff — including PhD students, associate professors, and postdocs — can quickly get up to speed on essential topics. Whether it’s boosting visibility via the research portal or exploring how AI can aid in complex problem-solving, Quick Bites delivers valuable information in a relaxed setting. Participants can eat lunch, tune in via chat, and ask questions with minimal time commitment but maximum accessibility. Librarians Fredrik Larsson and Britta Smångs share more about the initiative and what participants can expect.
What is “Quick Bites for Researchers”?
"We've developed a series of themed sessions where we gather and present information that researchers frequently want to know more about — practical tips on ORCID, insights into funding processes, and the latest digital tools," Fredrik Larsson explains. "By packaging these topics into bite-sized lunchtime sessions, we make the information more digestible, so researchers don’t have to navigate multiple websites in search of answers."
Britta Smångs adds, "It’s a digital way for us to guide researchers through the maze of different systems, providing a clear path through the complexity."
Why participate in the series?
"Each session lasts just 15 minutes — time well spent if you ask us! The format is flexible: you can submit questions in the chat, ask them live, or simply listen while having lunch. We provide up-to-date answers on topics like open access requirements, publishing costs, and how the university can support researchers in increasing their visibility," Fredrik Larsson explains.
Britta Smångs highlights that the series is designed for researchers at all stages of their careers: "Whether you're new to the research community or an experienced scholar, Quick Bites offers a space where answers are always within reach. We want researchers to feel that they have direct and accessible support from the library, no matter where they are in their journey."
What’s new in the series?
The series is dynamic, with content continuously updated to reflect emerging topics and researcher needs. "This is a living project," says Britta Smångs. "We adapt the content as new challenges arise."
A key addition is discussions on AI and prompt technology, an area not previously covered to this extent. "We’ll explore both the possibilities and limitations of AI tools, offering researchers a chance to engage with the latest developments," Fredrik Larsson explains.
What do you hope this initiative will lead to?
"Our goal is to strengthen the connection between researchers and the library, making it easier to get quick answers to pressing questions," says Fredrik Larsson.
Britta Smångs adds, "It’s also about redefining the library’s role. Many researchers still see the library in a traditional sense, but our team has broad expertise. By launching Quick Bites, we want to highlight that we’re here to support researchers wherever they are. As we move to a shared library in the Astronomy Centre, this initiative is also part of maintaining close ties with the research community."
How to participate
The series kicks off this spring with the first session on 26 March titled "ORCID – Every Researcher is Unique." This is a great opportunity to get an initial insight into how the series works and ask your own questions. No pre-registration is required — just join at 12:30 on Zoom. The session lasts approximately 15 minutes.
To make planning easier, a calendar has been created on the library's website, listing all upcoming events. The series will be held in English and is primarily aimed at research staff.
Learn more about each session in the Library of Science calendar.