Module 1.1: What ORCID Is

Back to ORCID Course

What ORCID Is

ORCID provides researchers with a persistent digital identity that can be used across systems and over time.

ORCID iD

An ORCID iD is a 16-digit unique identifier assigned to a researcher.

Example format: 0000-0002-1825-0097

Persistent Identifier (PID)

Unlike names or email addresses, an ORCID iD remains constant and reliable over time.

This means a researcher can move institutions, change email addresses, or publish under different name formats while still being identified correctly.

Global Standard

ORCID works with organizations such as Crossref and DataCite to connect researcher identities with publications, datasets, and grants.

Quick Reflection

  • How do researchers at your institution currently identify themselves across systems?
  • Where could ORCID reduce manual profile cleanup work?