The Rubin Observatory/LSST Science Collaborations are self-organized, self-managed groups of scientists who are recognized by Rubin Observator (as described in the Science Collaboration's Federation document) as reservoirs of expertise. They have a direct line of communication with the Rubin Observatory team (i.e. the Project during construction) through resources supported by the LSST Corporation (e.g. a Slack channel, dedicated community pages, and the existence of a Coordinator). The Science Collaborations also have a standing committee on the LSSTC Executive Board. The Science Collaborations, however, have no privileged access to Rubin Observatory data or software. All scientists that have Rubin Observatory data rights are welcome to apply to join one or more SCs, but membership rules, including requirements for acceptance within a SC, are established independently by each SC.
Each SC has its own rules for membership and application. Please look at the site of the SC you are interested in joining for details - LSST Science Collaborations
Being part of a Science Collaboration allows more direct communication with the Rubin Observatory. By becoming a member, you can influence Rubin Observatory project choices, communicate with the Data Management team and use software, tools, simulations, and data products developed by the collaboration.
Researchers can monitor the LSSTC Enabling Science calls for proposals.
