Understanding and using data repositories

What is a data repository?

A data repository is a storage space for researchers to deposit data sets associated with their research. And if you’re an author seeking to comply with a journal data sharing policy, you’ll need to identify a suitable repository for your data.

An open access data repository openly stores data in a way that allows immediate user access to anyone. There are no limitations to the repository access.

How should I choose a data repository?

First we recommend speaking to your institutional librarian, funder or colleagues at your institution for guidance on choosing a repository that is relevant to your discipline. You can also use FAIRsharing and re3data.org to search for a suitable repository – both provide a list of certified data repositories.

For cases where there is no subject-specific repository, you may wish to consider some of the generalist data repository types below.

We encourage authors to select a data repository that issues a persistent identifier, preferably a Digital Object Identifier (DOI), and has established a robust preservation plan to ensure the data is preserved in perpetuity. Additionally, we highly encourage researchers to consider the FAIR Data Principles when depositing data. The Primary Education Journal also supports Figshare for depositing data. In this regard, it is highly recommended that you consider Figshare first and foremost.

Checklist for choosing a data repository

  • Use the Instructions for Authors to find out which data sharing policy your chosen journal adheres to.
  • Speak to your librarian for a recommendation that’s relevant to your discipline. There may be an institutional repository that is suitable.
  • Use FAIRsharing and re3data.org if you still haven’t found a suitable repository.
  • First and foremost, consider using Figshare.

Frequently asked questions about using data repositories

The Primary Education Journal I’m submitting to is double-anonymous. What repository should I use?

If you’re submitting your article to The Primary Education Journal for a double-anonymous peer review and data that mandates sharing, then you will need to deposit your data in a repository that preserves anonymity, i.e. removes the details of the authors.

You can use the repository Figshare to generate a ‘private sharing link’ for free. This can be sent via email and the recipient can access the data without logging in or having a Figshare account. This feature is especially for anonymous peer review; you can generate a private sharing link to anonymize data for reviewers. It does not include the Author field or any non-Figshare branding. It is important to note that these links expire after one year however; therefore you should not cite them in publications.

I need to limit access to my data in a repository. How can I do this?

Figshare allows you to limit access to your data, whether permanently or following an embargo period. You can generate a ‘private sharing link’ for free. This can be sent via email address and the recipient can access the data without logging in or having a Figshare account.