As of today, UT researchers can safely archive their research data in Areda. This is the UT archive for long-term archiving of data after finishing a UT research project. Each UT research group has its own section in Areda – to which only researchers of that group have access. Before archiving data, you must provide documentation. In this way it will be easier for your research group colleagues (and yourself) to re-use the data. Safe and secure archiving ensures verification and correct interpretation of your research (data). UT researchers can use Areda free of costs: it is paid from the central budget.
When data are properly archived in Areda, the data will remain accessible and re-usable if PhD candidates or fellow researchers have left the UT. You can link from your publications to the dataset in the UT research information system.
Preparation and support from your faculty’s data steward
Archiving your static research data asks for preparation such as: selecting the data files, writing data documentation (metadata, terms of use), creating an archive file, and encryption in case of personal or other confidential data. You can ask your faculty’s research data steward(s) for support and advice before and during archiving the data. They will also perform a final check.
Research group ‘bucket’ and access
All research group members have access to the section (‘bucket’) of their group. Access to files can only be restricted by means of encryption. It is possible to share a dataset with UT researchers outside your group. To do so you can generate a unique, temporary link to the dataset.
Publishing your data in trusted repositories (for sharing)
Besides archiving your data the UT RDM policy also urges you to publish your static dataset (no later than 1 month after finishing the research) in a trusted repository, in accordance with the FAIR data-principles and, in compliance with legal and contractual conditions, openly accessible. The preferred repositories for publishing/ sharing your data are 4TU.ResearchData, and DANS.
Storing your dynamic data during research
Areda is meant to archive your static data after you have finished a research project. Areda is not for storing your dynamic data during your research. Use the decision tree "How to handle with research data" to find the best solution for storing research data during research.
Code of Conduct Scientific Integrity
With the Areda archive the UT ensures that in accordance with the Netherlands Code of Conduct Scientific Integrity (2018) research data, software codes, protocols, research materials and related meta data are archived safely and secure.
Back-up facility is hosted by Surf
All files are durably stored on certified servers at the UT. The back-up facility is hosted by Surf. Default preservation and availability is for a period of 10 years.
Find out more about Areda
Questions? Please, contact your faculty data steward.
