As described by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), “it is widely recognized that data, specifically research data, are of growing importance and impact to the economy and society”. The NIST diagram below illustrates the stages of the data lifecycle – from planning to managing to retaining & archiving.
Reflecting this growing importance, Cornell University updated the Research Data Retention Policy in July 2022, and the NIH is revising their Data Sharing & Management Policy in January 2023. These two policies are still current and applicable. You can find below some recommendation for research data repositories and storage:
General recommendations for research data deposits in repositories
Complying with the Cornell University Data Retention Policy and the NIH Data Management and Sharing Policy (2023)
The following section offers guidance on how to comply with the Cornell University Policy 4.21 on data retention and the new NIH Data Sharing & Management Policy.
Who is the custodian of the research data and responsible for answering the following questions?
According to CU policy, when do I have to create a WCM Institutional Data Repository for Research (WIDRR) entry for my data?
How long does the CU Policy require that I retain my data?
Where should I deposit my data? Which data repository should I use?
If I have followed the steps above, have I complied with the NIH data sharing policy effective January 25, 2023?
What are the differences in requirements between Cornell University and the new NIH Data Management and Sharing Policies?
What do I need to do for new NIH grant applications submitted after January 25, 2023?
What do I need to do for grant renewals?
What do I need to submit as part of my funding proposal?
Budget
Costs to execute a DMSP are allowable as a line item in the budget. A summary of the DMSP must be provided in the budget justification.
What are the allowable costs?
What are the unallowable costs?
Where are the costs represented?
Who reviews the budget?
What tools are available for compliance purposes during my grant award period?
Data Sharing
The new NIH policy requires a plan to maximize data sharing, while acknowledging factors (legal, ethical, or technical) that may affect the extent of data sharing. The policy requires human subjects research to have consent forms for data sharing, including de-identified data. The policy also requires that tribal authorities must give appropriate approvals to share data of indigenous peoples.
Where do I share my data?
When do I share my data?
How do I share my data?
What do I need to do for compliance and institutional oversight?