Persistent identifiers (PIDs) are unique, permanent identifiers that clearly identify and link digital objects and researchers. They play a key role in making research visible, discoverable, and citable - and are therefore a central component of modern scientific communication.
The most important PIDs at a glance:
- ORCID (Open Researcher and Contributor ID): Unique identifier for researchers that facilitates the assignment of their publications – regardless of name variations or institutional changes. ORCID is increasingly used in repositories, by funding agencies, and publishers. The TU Graz Library is an institutional member of the Austria-wide ORCID consortium.
- ROR (Research Organization Registry): This identifier uniquely assigns publications, data, and projects to research institutions. ROR is increasingly used in scientific information systems and supports consistent institutional localization – for example, in funding reports or the evaluation of research expenditures.
- DOI (Digital Object Identifier): The DOI is a central component for the permanent identification of digital objects such as specialist articles, data sets, or conference contributions. It ensures that content remains findable and citable in the long term, regardless of the current web address. It is usually assigned by publishers or repositories.
- Scopus Author ID and Web of Science Researcher ID: These database IDs are created automatically and are used to uniquely identify publications to specific authors. They enable easy tracking of citations and research impact within the respective systems.
Would you like to use PIDs strategically to increase your scientific visibility?
- We would be happy to advise you on the most important identifiers and how to use them.
- We can help you set up an ORCID profile.
- We regularly discuss PIDs in courses and workshops.
Interested in more details? Various blog posts by the Library offer an introduction to the topic.
