Data from: Data management, archiving and sharing for biologists and the role of research institutions in the technology-oriented age

Data are one of the primary outputs of science. Although certain sub-disciplines of biology have pioneered efforts to ensure their long-term preservation and facilitate collaborations, data continue to disappear, owing mostly to technological, regulatory and ideological hurdles. In this review, we describe the important steps towards proper data management and archiving, and provide a critical discussion on the importance of long term data conservation. We then illustrate the rise in data archiving through the Joint Data Archiving Policy and the Dryad Digital Repository. In particular, we discuss data integration and how the limited availability of large scale datasets can hinder new discoveries. Finally, we propose solutions to increase the rate of data preservation. For example, by generating mechanisms insuring proper data management and archiving, by providing training in data management, and by transforming the traditional role of research institutions and libraries as data generators towards managers and archivers.

数据是科学研究的核心产出之一。尽管部分生物学分支学科已率先开展工作以保障数据的长期留存并促进科研合作，但仍有大量数据不断流失，其主要原因在于技术、监管与理念层面的多重障碍。本综述阐述了规范数据管理与归档的关键步骤，并就数据长期留存的重要性展开批判性探讨。随后，我们以联合数据归档政策（Joint Data Archiving Policy）与Dryad数字仓储（Dryad Digital Repository）为例，展示数据归档领域的发展态势。尤为重要的是，本文探讨了数据整合工作，以及大规模数据集的可获取性不足如何阻碍新科学发现的产生。最后，我们提出了提升数据留存率的解决方案：例如建立保障规范数据管理与归档的机制、开展数据管理相关培训，以及推动研究机构与图书馆从传统的数据生产者角色，转型为数据管理者与归档者。