The Research Workflows and Metadata subgroup seeks to understand how researchers navigate through each stage of the data lifecycle. This project allows the RDMWG a more thorough understanding of how individual labs collect, organize, access and store project data. Using real world examples gathered by the subgroup, the RDMWG will be able to make data management recommendations to other labs who have similar workflows. The subgroup works with researchers to investigate the use of metadata in labs in order to identify best practices, set up directory structures, and make workflow recommendations. This project will educate users on metadata collection and documentation in relation to the data lifecycle.
 

2024 Goals

  1. Establish a community of Lab Data Managers
  2. Explore creation of an interactive repository matrix
  3. Compile examples of HMS Data Management and Sharing Plans to assist the research community and comply with granting agency requirements
  4. Create additional resources for Lab Data Managers

Accomplishments

  • 2023
    1. Continue advocating for the establishment of a database to house data management documentation (completed)
    2. Amplify interest and attendance of Lab Data Manager user group sessions
    3. Update the generalist repository matrix (completed)
    4. Compile real-life examples of Data Management and Sharing Plans to assist the research community and comply with granting agency requirements
    5. Develop further education related to metadata standards

  • 2022
    1. Focus efforts on the impending implementation of the NIH Policy for Data Management and Sharing (DMS Policy) in January 2023 (completed)
    2. Conduct a review of the Onboarding/Offboarding Checklists and Knowledge Transfer File Template, apply updates, and include new resources (completed)
    3. Support HMS RDM effort to create a community of Lab Data Managers and other at-the-bench researchers to support RDM training and advising efforts (completed)
    4. Continue to investigate whether a data management database could be created to house data management documentation (completed)

  • 2021
    1. Finalize the Knowledge Transfer File Template (completed)
    2. Develop and distribute a survey to researchers, gathering information about the types of metadata standards (completed)
    3. Investigate utilization of REDCap as a data management database, including an exploration of what local training is available

  • 2020
    1. Complete a consistency review for the On/Offboarding Checklists (completed)
    2. Publish On/Offboarding Checklists and update language on website (completed)
    3. Revise subgroup name (completed)
    4. Work with departments on customized templates (completed)
    5. Develop a generalized Knowledge Transfer File template (completed)
    6. Continue to collect metadata standards information and tracking (completed)
    7. Communication about subgroup products and projects (completed)

  • 2019
    1. Officially rollout the completed onboarding documentation for new lab members (completed)
    2. Draft, finalize, and rollout the offboarding documentation for exiting lab members (completed)
    3. Conduct research on the relevant biomedical metadata standards and update the metadata guides on the Harvard Biomedical Data Management website (completed)

Members

Sarah Arena

Julian Gautier

Julie Goldman

Meghan Kerr

John Obrycki

Jessica Pierce (lead)

Caroline Shamu