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TRU Borealis: Data Repository

Data Preparation

Data that you deposit should be clearly organized so that another researcher can understand and use the data. For example, variables should be clearly named and defined. TRU Borealis librarians will not be curating your data quality or usability; however, we recommend that you ensure your data is organized and usable.

Resources for Data Organization:

Additionally, a ReadMe file should be included alongside the data to provide important context. This resource outlines what should be included in a ReadMe file:

What is Sensitive Data?

Borealis is not suitable for storing sensitive or restricted data. You will have to de-identify and anonymize your data before you can publish it. Sensitive and restricted data include:

  • Human Participant Data
    • human participants, human biological material
    • ensure you have consent to share and de-identify participants
    • See resources below for assistance with deciding if you can share and on de-identifying data
  • Indigenous-owned data
    • Includes data collected from Indigenous people and Indigenous lands, water, and ice
    • Must receive consent from affected Indigenous community leaders to share data
  • Location information
    • Includes data collected of vulnerable species, from field sites in protected areas, from sensitive archaeological sites, or from private property where consent to reveal location was not obtained, could devalue property, cause stigmatization, or endanger vulnerable species

See the next box for resources about de-identifying data and working with sensitive data.

 

Source: Wilson, Susie (2021). Research Data Management: Data Storage and Security. https://libguides.unbc.ca/rdm/secure-storage

Source: FRDR. (n.d.). Preparing Your Data. FRDR-DFDR. Retrieved March 21, 2022, from https://www.frdr-dfdr.ca/docs/en/preparing_your_data/#choosing-preservation-friendly-file-formats

 

Sensitive Data Resources