The NIH places no definitive limit on how long data needs to be shared. However, per the WCM Data Retention Policy data must be retained for a minimum of six years. If data and images are used in a subsequent publication, or cited in a subsequent publication or grant application by faculty, then data must be available for an additional six years

Scientific data should be made accessible as soon as possible, and no later than the time of an associated publication or the end of the performance period of the extramural award that generated the data. Specifically, the DMS Policy expects scientific data to be shared by the earlier of two timepoints:

• The time of an associated publication:  Scientific data underlying peer-reviewed journal articles should be made accessible no later than the date on which the article is first made available in print or electronic format.

OR

• The end of the performance period: Scientific data underlying findings not disseminated through peer-reviewed journal articles should be shared by the end of the performance period unless the grant enters into a no-cost extension. If a no cost extension is permitted, then the recipient should share the data by the end of the extended performance period. These scientific data may underlie unpublished key findings, developments, and conclusions; or findings documented within preprints, conference proceedings, or book chapters. For example, scientific data underlying null and negative findings are important to share even though these key findings are not always published.  Researchers should be aware that some preprint servers may require the sharing of data upon preprint posting, and repositories storing data may similarly require public release of data upon preprint posting.

Adapted from: NIH DMSP FAQ

Under the DMS Policy, researchers are expected to maximize the appropriate sharing of scientific data, which is defined as data commonly accepted in the scientific community as being of sufficient quality to validate and replicate the research findings.

Not all data generated during NIH-supported research will constitute scientific data under the DMS Policy. Specifically, the DMS Policy does not expect researchers to share:

• Data that are not necessary for or of sufficient quality to validate and replicate the research findings,
• Laboratory notebooks,
• Preliminary analyses that are not necessary for or of sufficient quality to validate and replicate the research findings,
• Completed case report forms,
• Drafts of scientific papers,
• Plans for future research,
• Peer reviews,
• Communications with colleagues, or
• Physical objects, such as laboratory specimens

NOTE: This differs from the WCM Data Retention Policy, which calls for retention of additional material.

Adapted from: NIH DMS Plan FAQ