The first event for the N8 Data Stewards Network, Working with and Managing Sensitive Research Data Workshop, was held on the 23rd October. The workshop brought a range of speakers who shared their experiences and expertise around sensitive research data, including how best to share such data, a dive into the Five Safes and how they can be applied, to data protection issues with using Generative AI, and a history and landscape review of Trusted Research Environments.
Working with sensitive data can be difficult, including time-consuming processes and governance that can be difficult to navigate. By sharing guidance, experience, and best practices, these hurdles can hopefully be overcome by research teams more easily and aid the quality of the outputs as well as improve the rates and quality of the data that is shared FAIR-ly at the end.
Participant Impressions
Attendees responded positively to the event, noting its relevance and impact:
“The sessions were highly insightful and offered a well-rounded perspective on sensitive data. A key strength was the relevance of the content to the Northern England context, which aligns closely with our strategic and operational priorities.”
“There was a great mix of speakers covering a wide range of topics. I appreciated the online format—it made the event accessible and flexible.”
“The presentations were concise, engaging, and packed with useful content.”
Impact on Professional Practice
Participants also shared how the workshop would influence their future work:
“I gained several insights and examples of best practice that I can apply when supporting researchers at my institution.”
“I’ll now give more thought to data sharing from the very beginning of a project. The workshop has equipped me to share these learnings with colleagues.”
“It highlighted some important practical barriers to data sharing that I hadn’t fully considered before.”
“My service will be better informed going forward, and I now have a clearer understanding of where to find relevant information and resources.”
To learn more, visit our webpage. The presentation slides are now available, and session recordings will be released soon.