Data: Find and Share

• The new policy applies to any researcher funded in whole or in part by NIH whose research generates scientific data. 
• The policy requires investigators to submit an official Data Management and Sharing Plan as part of their request for funding.
• The policy does not require researchers to share data per se but expects them to maximize their data sharing. NIH strongly encourages the use of established repositories to the extent possible for preserving and sharing scientific data.
• It allows investigators to request funding for personnel costs or other fees related to data management and sharing activities; however, the money must be spent during the grant’s award period.
• Grant reviewers will see the data management plan and can comment on the budget, but plans are not used to determine the grant’s scientific merit. 
• The approved plan becomes a part of the terms and conditions of the grant. Compliance will be monitored at regular reporting intervals and may factor into future funding decisions.

To learn more about the NIH Policy for Data Management and Sharing, please see the resource links below.