Updated policy goes into effect Jan. 25, 2023.
The new NIH-wide Policy defines scientific data as “the recorded factual material commonly accepted in the scientific community as of sufficient quality to validate and replicate research findings, regardless of whether the data are used to support scholarly publications.” Accordingly, Plans should outline where, when, and how these resources will be shared.
A comprehensive Plan should:
- Identify the data types and resources that will be generated
- Propose a timeline for sharing the data and resources
- Determine where the resources will be stored (for example, NIH/NIA-designated repositories, other public or institutional repository)
- Describe how the community can access the resources
“You don’t need to wait until 2023 to embrace the principles of data sharing! Getting in the habit early will benefit the advancement of science overall. As this new policy gets closer to NIH-wide implementation, following are some tips to help prospective grantees get ready.”
Data management and sharing requirements: Tips and tricks to plan ahead | National Institute on Aging (nih.gov)
Be prepared.
The Final NIH Policy for Data Management and Sharing (DMS Policy), which goes into effect Jan. 25, 2023, applies to all NIH-supported research that results in the generation of scientific data. Data management and sharing plans, known as DMS Plans, will be required of all grantees.
Read the policy.
You are encouraged to read the new policy and review related NIH notices for more information, including expected elements of a DMS Plan, allowable costs, and guidance for selecting a data repository.
Helpful resources
- Which Policies Apply to My Research? – The NIH has a variety of sharing policies in place for research that it funds. This tool will help you determine which of the following NIH policies apply to your project.
- Best Practices for Scientific Data Management
- 2023 Data Management & Sharing Policy FAQs