6. Retain only as required

Retention of research data and biological samples after a study has been completed may be important to:

• Verify your research procedures and findings when they are challenged by others
• Monitor for potential unexpected, late or long-term effects of a research intervention

The importance of retention should be balanced against the risks of unauthorised access as well as the costs of maintaining data and samples in secure storage.

While the exact retention period will vary according to your needs, durability of the materials, regulatory or funding requirements, you should expect to retain your documents and samples for at least 3 years. When an inquiry or litigation arises, all records and samples should be retained until all issues are resolved.

In some cases, longer term or even permanent retention may be warranted, such as: ^(9,18–20)

• When your data or samples will be difficult or impossible to reproduce, or re-acquisition will impose high risks or burdens on subjects
• When your research is of high controversy
• When your research has high heritage and social value
• When your research is pioneering or led to a patent
• For genetic research, including research using gene therapies
  
  

7. Discard securely when no longer needed →