NIH Data Management and Sharing Policy Guidance and Resources
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The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has made several key changes to grant processes related to Data Management and Sharing (DMS) and the harmonized Genomic Data Sharing (GDS) policies as of January 25, 2023 (documented in NOT-OD-21-013). The NIH has a user-friendly website on NIH Scientific Data Sharing to guide researchers on these substantive changes.
Please be aware of the NIH policy, FAQ, Houston Methodist and other resources as you write your 2023 NIH grant and contract applications.
Key Points:
- The DMS policy is effective for applications received on/after January 25, 2023.
- The DMS policy requires a data management plan for all competing applications that generate scientific data, even if the budget is under $500,000 per year.
- Data sharing is expected, when possible, within ethical, legal and technical constraints.
- NIH can block funding for grants with unacceptable data sharing plans.
- More information on PI obligations and institutional compliance with this policy will be sent in forthcoming updates. Meanwhile, see the NIH website to review this important change.
Related Guidance:
Additional Resources
- 12 Days of Data Management and Sharing Tips and Resources – NIH Extramural Nexus
- 1-page flyer on the who, what, where, and when of the DMS Policy
- 2-part webinar series on understanding the DMS Policy and digging deeper into what’s required
- 3 key steps to implement the DMS Policy
- 4 sample DMS Plans to assist as you develop a plan for your research, and an optional format page
- 5 minutes is all it takes to determine what sharing policies apply to your research with this decision tool
- 6 elements recommended for a robust DMS Plan, a key component for your funding application
- 7 examples of allowable costs for data management and sharing
- 8+ slides in our Implementing the DMS Policy slide deck
- Fewer than 9 key differences between the 2003 data sharing policy vs. the new DMS policy, illustrated on the policy comparison table
- 10 activities that generally do and do not generate scientific data, including a complete list of activity codes generally subject to the DMS Policy
- 11+ FAQs to address your questions, and who to contact for more information
- Dozens of NIH-supported data repositories and resources to help you find an appropriate repository for your research
- FAIR Principles of Data Management