Research Data Management for Students: Introduction

What is research data management?

The purpose of research data management is to ensure that research data are safely processed and stored during and after the research process. Proper planning is a prerequisite for this.

Data management is a crucial part of the research skills that are practiced when preparing a thesis. Careful data management is also an essential part of good scientific practice.

By familiarizing yourself with data management you will

• save time and effort with your thesis
• know where and how to store your data and how to process it
• ensure data-secure processing of your datasets
• ensure data protection of your research participants
• know how to make sure you have the right to use the data
• follow good scientific practice and the requirements of your university
• be prepared for the workload.

This guide provides basic information on research data management for students and supervisors in the University of Lapland. More detailed information can be found in the researcher's data management guide.

Your supervisor is responsible for guiding you in gathering and using of research data. The university if responsible for supporting you both in questions related to research data management. Experts in the Library, IT-services, and legal services will help you if needed.