RSE as label

While the previous section focused on digital and analogue objects, this section aims to highlight the people within the ecosystem. We suggest using the term "Research Software Engineer" (RSE) as a label, rather than a job title or a description of identity, in accordance with the definition by the Netherlands eScience Center [2023]. In Germany, the term "Ingenieur" is protected, so a direct translation of the English term (Research Software) Engineer is therefore not advisable. The abbreviation we use in this paper should not imply that "RSE" denotes a distinct identity (e.g., contrasting with being a scientist) or that work as an RSE is not research intensive (e.g., being perceived as a technician). Rather, we recognise the diversity of roles within the research system that are fulfilled to varying degrees by individuals from academic, technical, and research-supporting backgrounds.