Management of Research Data

As explained in the Code, the responsible conduct of research includes the proper management and retention of research data. Retaining research data is important because it may be all that remains of the research work at the end of the project. While it may not be practical to keep all the primary material (such as ore, biological material, questionnaires or recordings), durable records derived from them (such as assays, test results, transcripts, and laboratory and field notes) must be retained and accessible.

The central aim is that sufficient materials and data are retained to justify the outcomes of the research and to defend them if they are challenged. The potential value of the material for further research should also be considered, particularly where the research would be difficult or impossible to repeat.

Working with your supervisor to determine a plan for the appropriate management and back-up of data during your research project is essential.  Prior to submission of your thesis, you are required to deposit all the original data or primary research materials relevant to your thesis with your supervisor and this will be a much easier task if you have prepared for this eventuality from the beginning of your degree.

In addition to the Australian Code of Practice for the Responsible Conduct of Research and the online training provided, familiarisation with the University of Adelaide's guide to research data management is recommended: http://libguides.adelaide.edu.au/researchdata