The Human Genome Project led to a paradigm shift in the way science is conducted and data is shared, says Rehma Chandaria.

Guest contributor Rehma Chandaria

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In 1996, an international group of scientists came together in Bermuda to discuss how sequence data from the Human Genome Project (HGP) should be released. The meeting concluded in the formation of the ‘Bermuda Principles’, a set of rules ensuring the data would be immediately shared on publicly accessible databases as it was generated. This ground-breaking accord contravened the conventional practice of releasing data only after publication in scientific journals. It changed the way we see data sharing, and ultimately, changed the way science research was conducted.

Its success demonstrated how a global community of scientists could collectively produce and use data far more efficiently than an individual could. This greatly benefited scientific progress and led to many important new insights and discoveries. For example, information of 30 genes associated with disease was published prior to publication of the draft sequence in 2001.

Recognising its ability to accelerate progress, there is an enormous push for all scientists to make raw data publicly available for others to analyse and use. As a prerequisite for publication or receiving grants, it is becoming increasingly common for journals and funding bodies to insist that data is shared openly. Continue reading →