Find a FAIR repository
Finding a good repository for your data can be a daunting task, with many factors to weigh in.
Metadata is one of the important aspects to consider when choosing a FAIR repository; rich metadata that follows your field’s metadata standards increases the findability, interoperability and reusability of your data. Citeability is another important aspect; if your data gets a DOI it will be easier to find and cite, and you will be able to track who uses it. Licensing is also important; you should be able to state a license for your data so it can be reused by others.
In the long term, the sustainability of your data - financially and technically - is the most important aspect of all. Warning signs include missing long-term funding or support, inadequate data backup routines and lack of data retention or preservation policies.
- Check if there are any guidelines from your institution or research funding organization for selecting a repository.
- Use a registry search tool or listing, like the Repository Finder (searches the Re3data registry) or FAIRsharing.org, to find repositories in your field.
- If you can, use a domain-specific repository so you publish your data with richer metadata and make it easier to find, access and reuse for others in your field. For neuroscience, you can use the INCF infrastructure portfolio [link TBA] or the INCF Infrastructure Committee’s list of criteria for neuroscience repositories and science gateways.
- If there are no domain-specific repositories, consider using cross-field repository services like DataCite, Dryad, Zenodo, or the Open Science Framework (OSF).
Some considerations for choosing a general repository:
- Use a checklist for minimal requirements for a FAIR repository: Source: the open economics guide:
https://openeconomics.zbw.eu/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/CL-FairDataRepository-eng.pdf