1. TOP
  2. Databases
  3. Basic Policies on the Handling of Data and Samples

Basic Policies on the Handling of Data and Samples by Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology

May 16, 2007: Enactment
April 1, 2023: Revision

1. Purposes

This Basic Policies refers to the handling and scientific and educational use of the various kinds of Data and Samples obtained by the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (hereinafter called “JAMSTEC”) as the result of its scientific research and development.

JAMSTEC considers the Earth as a unique system that is largely influenced by the Ocean and is involved in a wide scope of fundamental research and development. Further, JAMSTEC aims to contribute to the sustainable advancement of the human community as well as the systematization and expansion of knowledge through public relations, the dissemination of research results and related education activities.

JAMSTEC possesses a large number of leading-edge facilities and equipment and has obtained Data and Samples of extremely high academic value. These Data and Samples are the common property of the human community, and it is important that they are made open for research and educational purposes and be available for use into the future on a global basis. JAMSTEC believes it is one of its most important missions to properly store these valuable Data and Samples and provide them in an easily accessible manner.

At the same time, JAMSTEC will strictly manage the Data and Samples that are important information that contributes to securing autonomy and achieving superiority, and data that needs to be protected from the perspective of personal privacy, in accordance with any special considerations or separate stipulations such as restrictions on disclosure in research contracts, if any. In addition, with the diversity of research conducted at JAMSTEC, we will allow each research field to follow its own handling requirements and contribute to the development of science and technology and the further promotion of open science.

2. Definition of Data and Samples

The Data and Samples mentioned herein refer to those obtained through surveys and research, etc., as well as those generated and obtained as a result of such surveys and research.

In specific terms, the data refer to the research and observation data, simulation data, graphic images (including moving images, still images and photographs), and figures and any other kind of information obtained through research and study and any recording media thereof. Samples refer to the specimens obtained from the research and study including living organisms, sediments, rocks and seawater.

Regarding the Data and Samples that should be protected as intellectual property, appropriate measures shall be taken in accordance with JAMSTEC's "Basic Policy on Intellectual Property".

3. Ownership of Data and Samples

The Data and Samples obtained in the course of duties by Executives and Employees of JAMSTEC belong to JAMSTEC, except for the instances where specific agreements are made.

The attribution of Data and Samples provided by other institutions, etc., shall be determined separately.

4. Management and Storage of Data and Samples

JAMSTEC will properly manage and store the Data and Samples for use by research organizations and researchers for scientific and educational purposes.

5. Publication and Use of Data and Samples

JAMSTEC will try to provide the Data and Samples for use by research organizations and researchers for scientific and educational purposes. JAMSTEC will also promote the industrial use of the Data and Samples in an effort to return the benefits to the citizens. However, JAMSTEC will take measures to restrict the publish or distribution of information from the perspective of information management, research and development strategies, intellectual property strategies, etc. based on Security and Laws, Regulations, or when JAMSTEC conclude that the information of the published Data and Samples becomes unacceptable for use or that the publish of the information needs to be suspended.

The Data and Samples will be publicized as mentioned below.

Publication Moratorium Period of Data and Samples

The scientists who have obtained Data and Samples will be entitled to priority use of such Data and Samples for a period needed to prepare their research results (scientific papers and articles, etc.) including processing (calibrations, quality controls, etc.) of the Data and Samples necessary for publication. Upon expiration of their publication moratorium period, JAMSTEC will endeavor to publish the Data and Samples promptly.

Publication and Provision of Data and Sample Information

JAMSTEC will provide the information on the Data and Samples to the public through JAMSTEC databases and others, and will try to satisfy the needs and requirements of users. In releasing the information to the public, JAMSTEC will also try to create a system that can respond to the needs of users and the international distribution of scientific information.

Pricing Policies of Data and Samples

The Data and Samples belonging to JAMSTEC will be available free of charge for scientific and educational uses in principle except for the actual providing costs. Industrial uses of Data and Samples will be subject to be charged appropriately in principle and they will be depending on the nature of the use.

6. Disposal of Data and Samples

JAMSTEC will be entitled to dispose of (destroy or transfer) at its own discretion any Data and Samples deemed unworthy of storage or management, or those beyond a reasonable period of storage or management.

7. Disclaimer of Warranty

JAMSTEC assumes no responsibility for any damages arising from the use of the Data and Samples provided and published by JAMSTEC.