Data Publication Consultation

What is data publication?

Data publication is the act of intentionally releasing research data in a form that allows for use by others. In general, this means providing access to data not in a PDF, but in file formats and structures that are common for viewing, analyzing, and visualizing data (such as CSV, etc.). Often this includes collecting all data files, documentation, code/scripts, and any other files required to use and understand the data into a “dataset.” Ideally, datasets are independently curated and comply with the FAIR Guiding Principles, which means that the published data are Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable.

Some example of data publications in the Illinois Data Bank:

  • Larsen, Ryan J. ; Gagoski, Borjan; Morton, Sarah U.; Ou, Yangming; Vyas, Rutvi; Litt, Jonathan; Grant, P. Ellen; Sutton, Bradley P. (2021): Dataset for “Quantification of Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy data using a combined reference: Application in typically developing infants. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. https://doi.org/10.13012/B2IDB-3548139_V1
  • Jackson, Nicole ; Konar, Megan ; Debaere, Peter; Sheffield, Justin (2021): Data for “Crop-specific exposure to extreme temperature and moisture for the globe for the last half century”. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. https://doi.org/10.13012/B2IDB-5457902_V1

How do I publish data?

There are several ways to publish data, and we recommend depositing data into a dedicated repository or database. Doing this helps make the data discoverable and persistently available. Other common methods include providing supplemental files along with a journal article and publishing dedicated data papers. Simply posting data on personal website is not recommended.

Who can help with data publication?

People often have questions about which data they should publish, how to organize and document a dataset, and where and when to publish it. We help researchers with all of these questions, and help find and evaluate suitable data repositories. To set up a consultation, email us or fill out this form.