Quick Guide for UAMS Researchers
- Check whether you need a plan. NIH-funded research that generates scientific data generally requires a Data Management and Sharing (DMS) Plan. Check NIH’s applicable activity codes and your funding opportunity.
- Start with the required 2026 template. Download it from the DMS Plan Format Page. Follow the NIH writing instructions and updated plan requirements.
- Complete the template’s seven elements. Answer questions about appropriate sharing, release deadlines, retention, participant protections, and genomic data sharing. Explain any sharing limitations and their ethical, legal, or technical reasons (300 words maximum). List anticipated data types—including species and modality, if known—and repositories in the table (100 words maximum). Data supporting publications should be shared by publication; data supporting other findings by the project’s end, including no-cost extensions. Retain shared data for the period required by applicable repository and/or journal policies.
- Choose a repository and address protections. Use NIH’s repository selection guidance. For human participant data, review privacy and controlled-access guidance. If applicable, address the Genomic Data Sharing Policy, including accelerated sharing timelines and Institutional Certification.
- Submit or transition at the correct time. Under NOT-OD-26-100:
- Applications submitted on or after May 25, 2026: include the updated plan.
- Earlier applications awaiting award: provide it during Just-in-Time (JIT); if already awarded, transition at the next progress report.
- Active awards under the 2023 policy: update at the next Research Performance Progress Report (RPPR), or the FY2027 RPPR if FY2026’s was already submitted.
- Other covered active awards generating scientific data, including those under the 2003 policy: submit the updated plan with the FY2027 RPPR.
- Keep the plan current. Effective October 1, 2026, report sharing progress and plan changes in RPPR Section C.5.c. NIH is removing the prior-approval requirement for changes to approved DMS Plans. See the implementation notice and NIH FAQs.
- Examples from UAMS researchers (For reference only):
Questions or need more information?
Contact Dr. Mohamed Elasri at moelasri@uams.edu