Genomic Data Sharing Policy

Scope Note

Genomic research advances our understanding of factors that influence health and disease. To facilitate the translation of research results into applications that improve human health, NIH expects institutions and researchers to broadly and responsibly share genomic data generated by NIH funds. 

Genomic Data Sharing Policy Overview

Learn what is expected of investigators and institutions under the NIH Genomic Data Sharing Policy

Developing Genomic Data Sharing Plans

Genomic Data Sharing (GDS) plans describe how the research will meet the expectations of NIH's GDS policy. Learn how to write and submit a GDS plan.

About Institutional Certifications

Institutional Certifications are expected for the submission of large-scale human genomic data under the NIH Genomic Data Sharing Policy. Understand the responsibilities of the investigator, the institution, and the institutional review board (IRB) in preparing an Institutional Certification.

Completing an Institutional Certification Form

Find step-by-step instructions for completing an Institutional Certification form. Want to learn more about Institutional Certifications? See About Institutional Certifications.

Genomic Data Sharing Expectations by NIH Institute & Center

Some NIH Institutes and Centers (ICs) have additional expectations for projects generating large-scale genomic data. Learn about the policy expectations for each NIH IC here.

Data Submission and Release Expectations

Under the NIH’s genomic data sharing policy, investigators are expected to share genomic data as well as relevant associated data generated using NIH funding. Learn more about NIH’s expectations.

Where to Submit Genomic Data

Genomic research data that results from NIH-supported studies is expected to be shared in an appropriate database. Find information about frequently used repositories where human and non-human genomic data may be submitted.

How to Register and Submit a Study in dbGaP

All large-scale human genomic studies funded by NIH must register in dbGaP, an NIH repository for human genomic data. This page provides step-by-step instructions for registering a study in dbGaP.

GDS IC Contacts

NIH Institue and Center (IC) staff are here to answer your questions relating to the Genomic Data Sharing Policy!

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      Finding the Right Program Staff to Contact

      • When Exploring NIH
        • Look at organization charts and staff directories on NIH Institute or Center (IC) websites.
        • Use our Matchmaker tool in RePORT to find NIH funded grants on topics related to yours.
      • When Preparing to Apply
        • Refer to section VII of the funding opportunity announcement for Scientific/Reesearch Contact(s)
      • After Application or Award
        • Refer to your eRA account for the assigned program staff contact for your application
      • Questions about the GDS Policy
      • Questions about the dbGaP Technical Support

       


      This page last updated on: August 5, 2025
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