The Data Steward can delegate specific responsibilities, and this should be outlined in the project’s Data Management Plan[1].

 

In practice, the day-to-day management of research data is likely to be a shared responsibility, with all researchers having a personal responsibility for the data they create or use. In the case of students, these practical responsibilities should be overseen by their doctoral or project supervisor.

 

In the absence of the Data Steward, responsibility for stewardship of research data, including arbitration on the retention of legacy data held on university systems, will transfer to the Head of Department or Dean of School[2]. See Research Data Management Policy (MPF1242)

 

Where research is conducted in collaboration with external research partners, or where there are multiple co-investigators at the University, a single Data Steward at the University of Melbourne must still be assigned. This Data Steward[3] is responsible for the management of research data that is under the University’s control.

 

Before leaving the University of Melbourne at the end of a contract or completion of doctoral studies, researchers must first discuss management and retention of all research data for which they are responsible with their line manager, doctoral or project supervisor, or Head of Department or Dean of School as appropriate, to determine whether a copy of the data will be retained by the University for continued study, and whether the researcher will take a copy[4]. These decisions must conform with requirements and restrictions arising from applicable legislation, funding, contracts, ethical approval, and policies.

 

[1] DMPMelbourne has been developed to help UoM researchers and teams write data management plans. https://dmp.research.unimelb.edu.au/
[2] 5.2. Researchers must ensure that the University has a record of ownership and responsibility for any research data and records they have transferred into the University’s control (e.g., for storage on university facilities). (a) Where no ownership or responsibility has been recorded, or the recorded responsible party is no longer a University of Melbourne researcher, the relevant Dean or delegate will hold authority to decide on storage, retention, disposal, publication, or licensing arrangements in compliance with legal and regulatory obligations.
[3] The University of Melbourne Digital Stewardship (Research) team aims to modernise scholarly practice via digital techniques and by maximising the value of research data. https://library.unimelb.edu.au/digital-stewardship
[4] See Storage, retention, and disposal - 5.3. Researchers must curate and store accurate, complete, and authentic research data and records in formats that are understandable, retrievable, and accessible to appropriate parties. https://policy.unimelb.edu.au/MPF1242/ 

1. it's one of most important things to do and have as a researcher. 
2. it helps you do your work and make an impact as a researcher. 
3. it can help you manage your research and all aspects of your data. 
What else?

The CARE Principles for Indigenous Data Governance guide appropriate use and reuse of Indigenous data. This set of principles indicates the significant and crucial role of data in advancing Indigenous innovation and self-determination.