Databases for Researchers

Researchers who have database requirements associated with a research project can request this fully chargeable service from Research IT. This will enable researchers to take advantage of experienced support, expertise and assistance. Please note that this service is to be used only for unrestricted datasets. For more information on the data classifications at the University of Manchester, please read the document below.

Database requirements should be a key consideration at the pre-award stage of the research lifecycle. This allows for relevant conversations with the Research IT team about the researcher’s specific requirements and affords transparency and informed consideration of time and cost implications. However, enquiries about the service can be made at any time.

If you think you may have database requirements, or if you’re not sure what those requirements are, you can submit an IVANTI request (searching “Database for research”) to have a discussion with Research IT.

  • Research IT can also provide support and expertise, making it easier to demonstrate compliance with University/funder regulations and helping to remove data security uncertainties that come with using an external service.
  • There will also be a reduced risk of losing access to data and less effort required to maintain the database, thereby reducing researchers’ workloads.
  • The cost of the service will need to be factored into your grant applications to ensure the funding is covered.
  • Research IT will work with you to develop a service agreement. This will allow you to clearly see the service you are getting and cost your database thoroughly. The service agreement will also help you to plan what happens to your data at the end of a project, to enable good data management practice.

To begin your enquiry or just have a chat with the Research IT team to discuss how the Database as a service can make a positive impact on your research project, please log into the IT Support Portal and raise a ticket, by searching for 'database for research' in the ITS support portal. A colleague from Research IT will then be in touch.