Repositories
A research data repository is a digital platform where researchers can store, preserve, describe, and share research data.
Where possible, researchers should consider discipline-specific repositories first. General-purpose repositories can be used when an appropriate disciplinary or institutional repository is not available.
Trustworthy Digital Repositories
When choosing a repository for research data, it is important to select one that can reliably preserve data and provide long-term access. A trustworthy repository should follow recognized standards, have sustainable governance and funding, and operate transparently.
Repositories may be certified by recognized organizations, such as CoreTrustSeal, or assessed against standards including ISO 16363 and DIN 31644.
CoreTrustSeal – Trustworthy Data Repositories
The Registry of Research Data Repositories (re3data) is a useful tool for finding and comparing repositories worldwide.
What to Consider When Choosing a Repository?
Before selecting a repository, consider:
- Discipline and scope — Does the repository accept your type of research data?
- Funder requirements — Does it meet the requirements of your funder or project?
- Trustworthiness — Does it provide reliable long-term preservation?
- Persistent identifiers — Does it assign a DOI or another persistent identifier?
- Metadata — Does it support appropriate metadata standards?
- Access conditions — Can you use open, restricted, or embargoed access where needed?
- Licensing — Can you specify appropriate reuse conditions?
- File formats and size — Are your file types and dataset size supported?
- Documentation and curation — Does the repository support data documentation and quality assurance?
- Cost — Are there deposit, storage, or other fees?
- Long-term preservation — Is there a clear policy for retention and continued access?
The repository should be selected according to the nature of the data and the requirements of the research project.
