The unique identification of organizations using persistent identifiers (PIDs) is essential for making research contributions fully visible and transparent. This requires systematic linking of organizational identifiers with researchers, research data, publications, and related activities. Using PIDs simplifies internal and external referencing, improves data interoperability, fosters collaboration across institutions, and facilitates the tracking and assessment of research contributions.

Which PIDs are used – and where can they be obtained?

Several PID systems exist for organizations:

• The ROR ID (Research Organization Registry) is an internationally recognized, open infrastructure for identifying research institutions.
• The ISNI (International Standard Name Identifier) identifies organizations and individuals worldwide.
• In German-speaking regions, the GND (Integrated Authority File) is commonly used, especially in libraries and archives.

Referencing funders and research projects with PIDs

In addition to organizations, funding bodies and research projects can also be identified with PIDs. 

• The Crossref Funder Registry provides standardized identifiers for funders and is commonly used in publication metadata.
• In Germany, Gepris, the DFG’s project information database, offers structured data on funded research projects.
• For globally unique identification and tracking of research projects, the RAiD (Research Activity Identifier) was developed — a PID designed to link all contributors, resources, and outputs of a project.