Reclaiming scientific discourse, one conversation at a time.

Open Science Network emerged from a simple but powerful observation: when researchers rely on corporate platforms for essential communication, they risk losing control over their own work and community. The collapse of "ScienceTwitter" endangered years of valuable scientific exchange, exposing just how dependent we had become on infrastructure we neither owned nor governed.

Built by scientists, for scientists

We believe scientific discourse deserves better. Open Science Network is co-designed with researchers, scientific communities, and open science advocates who know that the tools of scientific communication shape science itself. Platforms that prioritize engagement over accuracy cannot foster trustworthy scientific exchange.

Our approach is different: federated digital spaces where researchers and institutions retain full control over their data, including conversations and networks. Universities can host their own instances while being interconnected with a global network of scientific communities. Discussions can become citable FAIR objects with DOIs. Publications are enriched with metadata and collaborative tools.

Open by design and community-governed

Open Science Network is a non-profit initiative operating without venture capital or corporate funding. We're building infrastructure that serves science, not shareholders. Every decision is made through discussion among the research community. Every feature is shaped by real needs identified through ongoing collaboration and co-design with scientists worldwide.

The software is developed by the Bonfire team in collaboration with research communities worldwide. All code is open source and available under the AGPLv3 license.

The future of scientific communication

We envision a world where scientific collaboration seamlessly crosses institutional boundaries without sacrificing autonomy. Where research insights are preserved as permanent, citable parts of the scholarly record. Where a physicist at MIT can connect with a climate scientist at ETH Zurich—each using their institution’s platform, yet connected through the open social web.

This isn’t just about better tools—it’s about building the infrastructure science needs. Infrastructure owned by researchers, governed by scientific communities, and designed to advance knowledge, not corporate profit.

Join us in reclaiming scientific discourse. The future of research communication belongs in the hands of researchers.

Ready to join the movement?

Questions? Reach out to our team at team@bonfire.cafe or discuss on the fediverse.