The 2023 National Institute of Health (NIH) Data Sharing Policy and requirements have generated great discussions on how the policy will impact researchers and what they should expect. Whether or not you are currently receiving NIH funding, you should be aware that effective January 25, 2023, the NIH expects, at a minimum, researchers and institutions plan and budget for managing and sharing data, submit a data management and sharing plan (DMSP) when applying for funding, and comply with the DMS Policy. This new policy aims to facilitate and promote the sharing of scientific data to advance research.
Not everyone conducting research is subject to the policy. It only affects those whose research generates any scientific data needed to validate and replicate research findings. The NIH outlines the types of research that typically do not generate scientific data and thus would not be subject to the DMS policy. Use the NIH’s decision tool, Which Policies Apply to My Research?, to determine if your research is subject to the DMS Policy or if there are additional sharing policies you need to be aware of.
With this being said, data stewardship becomes a primary consideration for anyone working with research data in any capacity. Data stewardship is classically defined as the caring of data creation, preparation, usage, storage, and longevity. You may be thinking, “What about the data librarian?” Is it not their job to oversee data and the organization’s established data governance policies? Yes, but not everyone has a formal data steward role. A library steward is like the traffic officer who ensures traffic is moving along and holds the driver responsible for their car. In other words, it is a shared responsibility.
Here are some essential factors of data stewardship that you should be aware of and incorporate into your professional practice.
- Understand your organization’s data governance policies. This includes your funder’s policies. Your funder may have specific data requirements. Incorporating them into your research plans will help ensure your research continues to be funded.
- Ensure your data is accessible. Establishing metadata is a critical step in helping others find your data. ASU Library Researcher Support Services can help answer questions regarding establishing your metadata structure for your research data. You can also learn more about metadata with this quick tutorial.
- Keep your data safe. The ASU Research Data Repository supports ASU-affiliated projects. There are other repositories available, and you can request a consultation to strategize which repository is best for your needs and research.
- Keep your data organized. Consolidating your research information in one place can save you time, help in communication, and save valuable time. ASU offers LabArchives Electronic Research Notebook as a resource for researchers. Utilizing this resource in the conception stage of your research may help streamline your research data management plan.
- Create your Data Management and Sharing Plan (DMSP) early. Do not wait for project funding to start developing a plan. Most federal funding agencies will require a plan to be submitted with your proposal. A DMSP can spotlight areas in your research plan that need improvement or modification. Establishing your DMSP can help streamline your research. For more information, the ASU library offers consultations and tutorials to help you write your DMSP.
The overall goal of the policy is to ensure you have a plan to make your research data accessible, transparent, and accurate. Data stewardship should be a foundational standard for all researchers. This can be overwhelming, but there are many resources at ASU to help guide you in your research management and publications. For more information, see our guides for the 2023 NIH data policy and research data management and sharing.
If you still have questions, we can help. Visit ASU Library Researcher Support or ASU's Research Data Management Office and get in touch.
