As a follow-on project for Engaging with Scientists in Central Asia on Data Governance Principles for Life Science Data--A Workshop Series that was initiated in 2022 (DELS-BLS-21-05), the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) will convene an international ad hoc committee to encourage the development and implementation of resources for countering unauthorized access to biological data and knowledge while simultaneously enabling responsible sharing of these biological data. The committee will help to achieve the following objectives:
• Assist scientists in compiling existing practices and resources for managing access to and sharing of biological data. On the basis of these resources, the committee will help guide regional scientists in tailoring, and possibly developing nationally relevant practices and procedures for a) reducing the risks and vulnerabilities of unauthorized access to biological knowledge, and b) enhancing benefits of sharing research data and results within the region and internationally.
• Develop plans for integrating these practices and procedures into research workflows and education and training programs in institutions within the region.
• Create an environment in which regional scientists can share lessons learned about development and implementation of these practices and procedures and seek guidance and mentorship among regional and international experts.
The committee will not be developing any written products from this project. It will help to identify the institutions and scientists who might participate in this project, provide guidance and mentorship to regional scientists involved in this project, and serve as knowledgeable resources for participating scientists.