A data management plan is an important tool that outlines the type of data you expect to collect or generate during your project.
The plan ensures that collected data is handled appropriately, securely, and incompliance with professional standards throughout the project's duration—from collection to archiving or deletion.
It also helps ensure that you comply with applicable regulations and requirements set by funding agencies or collaborative partners.
When applying for external funding and preparing to publish findings in scientific journals, you are often asked to document that your project complies with applicable ethical standards. This is especially true if your project involves humans, animals, or sensitive personal data.
It is important that you determine at an early stage whether the project requires approval from a research ethics committee or another relevant authority. These committees ensure that research is conducted with respect for participants' rights and welfare.
When working with personal data, you must follow legal regulations for collection, storage, and processing—especially the rules in the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This includes ensuring that data is stored securely, processed solely for the stated research purpose, and that individuals retain the rights guaranteed to them by law.
Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to legal issues. It is important to have the correct data processing agreements and institutional procedures in place for data processing.
Read about types of personal data and requirements at the Technology Transfer Office.