Manage your research data from creation to preservation
The HMS Research Data Management (RDM) team is part of the Research Computing group that assists researchers to better manage, organize, and share data throughout the research lifecycle.
Early and attentive management at each step of the data lifecycle will ensure the discoverability and longevity of your research.
HMS offers a range of storage solutions that fit various needs and requirements; the RDM team can assist with selecting the best storage offering for your research.
For additional guidance and resources, visit the Harvard Biomedical Data Management website.
For support, contact the HMS Research Data Management team at rdmhelp@hms.harvard.edu.
RDM team:
- Jessica Pierce, Assistant Director, Research Data Management
- Danielle Brown, Research Data Management Support Specialist
Additional information
Eligibility
Supporting all members of the research communityOur service is open to all researchers in the Longwood Medical Area. Each storage solution has its own set of eligibility requirements which are focused primarily on HMS resources.
Data management consulting
Collaborative consultations with RDM expertsResearch Data Management is the process of providing the appropriate labeling, storage, and access for data at all stages of a research project. Our team collaborates with labs and researchers to:
- Classify existing data
- Interpret data usage metrics
- Refine storage workflows and processes
- Automate data transfers between platforms
- Provide a better understanding of how to sustainably manage large scale data storage
- Recommend new data management products and technologies tailored to your needs
Contact the RDM team for personalized support at rdmhelp@hms.harvard.edu.
NIH data management and sharing plans (DMSP) support
Get guidance in writing or implementing DMSPsAs of January 2023, NIH requires Data Management and Sharing Plans (DMSPs) to accompany grant applications that generate scientific data.
The Research Computing Consultants team can guide the writing or implementation of DMSPs. RCCs have a science background and knowledge of the HMS computing resources that can be leveraged for your research.
The RCCs work with the Office of Research Administration (ORA), Countway Library, and other groups to ensure coordinated support without dropped handoffs in budgeting, repository selection, and IRBs.
You can reach out via dmsphelp@hms.harvard.edu for support.
This mailbox is monitored only during Harvard business hours. Also, while RCCs will endeavor to provide prompt assistance, it can take time to collect the required information. Plan accordingly.
Resources
Global resources
Harvard and HMS resources
- Monthly virtual "Ask an Expert" DMSP sessions, which include a presentation by Countway Library support staff, followed by time for individual questions.
- Vice Provost for Research site – Expand the NIH section at the bottom of the page.
- Harvard FAQ on the NIH policy from Countway Library
- Budgeting and Application Tip Sheet from the HMS Office of Research Administration
- The DMPTool template for creating DMSPs, with Harvard-specific guidance
- In the initial DMPTool sign-in box, sign in with your name in the format FIRSTNAME_LASTNAME@harvard.edu. Omit hms in this sign-in box, even if it's part of your HarvardKey. You will then be prompted to enter your usual HarvardKey credentials.
- Longwood Area Research Data Management Working Group (DMWG) page on DMSPs
- Featuring a page with a 5-minute video on using DMPTool