Data Management Plan
A Data Management Plan (DMP) is a formal document that explains how research data will be handled both during and after a research project. Think of it as a roadmap that shows how valuable research information will be collected, organized, stored, and shared. Most research funding organizations now require these plans as part of grant applications. It's similar to having a business plan, but instead of managing money, it manages research data. When you see this on a resume, it means the person has experience in organizing and protecting important research information.
Examples in Resumes
Developed and implemented Data Management Plan for $2M NIH-funded research project
Created Data Management Plans for multiple grant proposals with 100% acceptance rate
Led team training sessions on DMP creation and implementation guidelines
Coordinated with IT department to execute Data Management Plan storage solutions
Typical job title: "Data Management Specialists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Data Management Specialists
Professional Organizations
Online Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a complex multi-year research project with sensitive data across multiple institutions?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that discuss coordination between institutions, security measures, long-term storage solutions, and compliance with different institutional policies and regulations.
Q: Describe your experience in creating data management policies for an organization.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience in developing institution-wide guidelines, working with stakeholders, and implementing practical solutions that balance research needs with compliance requirements.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What elements do you consider essential in a Data Management Plan?
Expected Answer: Should mention data collection methods, storage solutions, backup procedures, sharing policies, and long-term preservation strategies in clear, practical terms.
Q: How do you ensure researchers comply with data management requirements?
Expected Answer: Should discuss training approaches, documentation methods, regular check-ins, and ways to make compliance easier for researchers.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What tools have you used for creating Data Management Plans?
Expected Answer: Should be familiar with common tools like DMPTool or similar platforms, and understand basic templates and requirements.
Q: How do you organize research data for easy access?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic file naming conventions, folder structures, and documentation practices for keeping research data organized.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of data organization
- Familiarity with DMP templates
- Knowledge of file naming conventions
- Basic data backup procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Creating comprehensive DMPs
- Understanding funding requirements
- Training others in data management
- Knowledge of data sharing policies
Senior (5+ years)
- Policy development
- Multi-institution coordination
- Complex project management
- Strategic planning for data preservation
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of funding agency requirements
- Unfamiliar with data privacy regulations
- Lack of experience with documentation practices
- No understanding of data sharing policies
- Unable to explain basic data organization principles
Related Terms
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