Can I have your data? Recommendations and practical tips for sharing neuroimaging data upon a direct personal...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Data Science
• Bioethics

Background:

• Direct personal requests for neuroimaging data present unique challenges compared to repository sharing.
• Negotiating data sharing terms involves complex ethical, regulatory, and technical considerations.
• These challenges can cause significant delays and potential disputes in research collaborations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide researchers with a structured approach and practical guidance for sharing neuroimaging data via direct requests.
• To identify key considerations and potential pitfalls at each stage of the data-sharing process.
• To offer recommendations for streamlining data sharing and mitigating challenges, particularly for early-career scientists.

Main Methods:

• A six-stage framework was developed for direct neuroimaging data sharing: request, legal review, negotiation, preparation/transfer, management/analysis, and outcome sharing.
• Factors for each stage were identified through a review of ethical principles, institutional policies, funding agency guidelines, and U.S./E.U. regulations.
• A case study involving PET/MRI data from 782 subjects across seven international sites illustrated practical insights.

Main Results:

• Direct neuroimaging data sharing involves six distinct stages requiring careful navigation.
• The case study indicated an average data sharing effort of 8 months, with potential extensions up to 24 months.
• Challenges are particularly pronounced for early-career scientists with limited project timelines.

Conclusions:

• Direct neuroimaging data sharing is complex and time-consuming, often exceeding 8 months on average.
• Best practices and practical tips are crucial for researchers to efficiently share data and minimize friction.
• Addressing these challenges is vital for fostering collaboration and advancing neuroimaging research, especially for junior scientists.