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Back to Bermuda: how is science best served?
Deanna M Church1, LaDeana W Hillier
1NCBI/NLM/NIH 8600 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20894, USA. church@ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Genome Biology
|May 14, 2009
Summary
Independent bovine genome assemblies highlight the need to update data sharing policies. Revisiting the Bermuda and Fort Lauderdale agreements will ensure fair access and benefit for data producers and users in genomics research.
Area of Science:
- Genomics
- Bioinformatics
- Animal Science
Background:
- Two independent bovine genome assemblies were recently announced, both derived from the same dataset.
- This duplication raises questions about current data release and distribution practices in large-scale genomic projects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To re-evaluate the principles of the Bermuda and Fort Lauderdale agreements in the context of modern genomic data sharing.
- To propose updated policies for data release and distribution that optimize benefits for both data creators and researchers.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of the circumstances surrounding the independent genome assembly announcements.
- Review of historical data sharing agreements and their applicability to current genomic research.
Main Results:
- The simultaneous release of similar genome assemblies from identical data underscores potential inefficiencies and conflicts in data sharing protocols.
- Current practices may not fully align with the original spirit of open data access and equitable use.
Conclusions:
- It is imperative to revisit and potentially revise existing data sharing policies for large-scale genomic datasets.
- New agreements should be established to ensure that data producers and users are adequately served, fostering collaboration and advancing scientific discovery.
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