Data Management Departure Guidelines

Research data collected under the auspices of Columbia University belongs to the University, not to the Principal Investigator (PI) or the individual who collected it. Upon departure, you will no longer have access to university computer systems, applications or files containing sensitive information (including PHI, intellectual property or other sensitive data), unless there is an appropriate written institutional agreement. This includes termination of access to university email, all university applications including the electronic health record, and the university network including department shared drives.

Please follow these guidelines to ensure a smooth transition as you prepare for your departure from the university. Proper handling of ALL research data during the exit process is necessary to ensure compliance with federal and state privacy laws and university policies, and to protect the university's intellectual property and other interests. Additionally, ensuring appropriate data stewardship at the time of departure is a necessary precursor to future collaboration.