A data access statement should direct the reader of a publication to underpinning data, or explain how underpinning data can be accessed. Researchers should include a data statement in their publications for the purposes of clarity and transparency and in accordance with open data ethos advocated by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), other research funders, the GCU Publications Policy (2025), and publishers.

Indeed even where there are no data associated with an article or the data are inaccessible' publications funded by UKRI must include a Data Access Statement (UKRI Open Access Policy, 2023).

Components of a data access statement

Data statements should outline:

• the data that underpins a publication/research
• the source of the data (the host repository and persistent link)
• any access/use conditions (for example access, subject to completion of a non-disclosure agreement).

If data is restricted, the reason for the restriction should be intimated.

If there is no data underpinning the paper, a statement confirming this should be provided to aid transparency.

A persistent identifier, such as a Digital Object Identifier, accession number or link to a permanent record for the dataset should be included in the statement.

Timing and locating a data access statement

Timing is important; data statements need to be prepared prior to final submission of publication.

Data statements are often located within the acknowledgments section or reference lists of papers however, this will vary, as it is dependent upon the publisher's editorial processes. Researchers should check the journal's data policy or contact libraryresearch@gcu.ac.uk for advice.

Sample data access statements

Provided below are some example data statements. These are only suggestive examples and should be tailored to suit each publication.

The information on this page has been reused and adapted from “Research data management & sharing: Data access statements”, with permission from the University of Strathclyde, who are the original creator of the work.

Contact us

Please contact libraryresearch@gcu.ac.uk for more information, or questions regarding data access statements.