Development, one of DMM’s sister journals, has recently launched a new community website to connect scientists interested in developmental biology or related fields. The website, called ‘the Node’ (http://thenode.biologists.com/), is in one sense a virtual coffee break, providing an ideal space for developmental biologists of all levels to discuss a controversial paper or exchange ideas after an exciting meeting. In another sense, the Node is a dynamic online notice board, informing the community on everything from new funding sources to employment opportunities.
When Development surveyed its readers in 2009 about the strengths and weaknesses of the journal, they were surprised by an overwhelming request for a more interactive website. So, the Development editorial team held onto this thread and began to build the tight-knit community website that developmental biologists had requested. The Node, which held its launch party at the Gurdon Institute in Cambridge, UK, in July 2010, is already showing signs of success, having received thousands of visitors and approving more than 100 new registered authors within the first few weeks of going live. This is a promising beginning because – although managed by Development’s dedicated Online Editor, Eva Amsen – the Node is community run, and its growth depends on the interest and involvement of its members.
The contents of the Node are divided into categories, including Careers, Events, Interview, News, Research and Resources. Approved users can post items of interest in any of these areas, from meeting reports to topical comment, photos to feedback. For example, Shelley Edmunds, a graduate teaching assistant at the University of Auckland, posted advice and photos about teaching undergraduates embryology using a hands-on approach that involves building an embryo with modelling clay. Jonathan Slack, author of Essential Developmental Biology, posted a request for feedback from the community as he prepares the third edition of his textbook.
Access to the increasing information available on the Node is available to anyone, and to write content for the site, all users must do is register and be approved by the Node’s Community Manager. http://thenode.biologists.com/
