Data Security and Confidentiality

Scientific data quality

• Bridge works within the confines of the Joint Code of Practice for Research, a copy of which can be found here. This set of guidelines maps out the standards to which academic-based researchers should adhere and ensures the quality of the processes and procedures that we undertake.
• Bridge have a team of research scientists, instrument experts, and technicians that have decades of collective experience in materials, engineering, chemical, and biochemical research and analysis. Almost all are qualified to PhD level, making them experts in their fields. Training on new techniques is thorough and documented.
• Analytical instruments are serviced regularly and, where appropriately, calibrated and tested frequently. For many of our procedures we incorporate both positive and negative control measurements, or alternatively measurements of standards, to ensure that instrumentation, and the protocols for their use, are delivering correct results.
• Samples received are uniquely labelled and stored appropriately – the identity and location of each sample is documented.
• The details of all laboratory work is recorded in scientific notebooks.

Scientific data security

• All scientific data is stored either in scientific notebooks or in electronic form. Electronic data is stored securely with the University of Lincoln networks which meet Cyber Essentials. This storage is regularly and reliably backed up. Files are secured so that only relevant Bridge staff have access.
• Once projects have finished, we will store your data either in Bridge area of the University network or in off-site archive facilities, where the electronic data will also be stored securely. Typically, we will hold data for up to 10 years, although depending on the type and scale of data to be stored, this may incur an additional cost to the client. Alternatively, all data generated during the project can be sent to the client, by agreement of both parties.

Project confidentiality

• Bridge staff take project confidentiality very seriously and we are happy to sign Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDA) before detailed project discussions take place or at any point during the project period. We can supply an NDA template upon request.
• Bridge operates as a self-contained unit within the University of Lincoln, but all University staff are covered by any NDA that we sign. Hence, we can access necessary equipment and facilities elsewhere around the University whilst maintaining client confidentiality.
• Confidential project discussions, with the client or within Bridge, are always held in closed meeting rooms and project notes are held electronically in secure files. No data is presented in any scientific forums without explicit permission from the client.

Personal data security statement

• During the early stages of project discussions, we take some personal details from individuals who are the designated client contacts. The lawful basis for us holding this information is that it is necessary for us to have this information to fulfil any contract that we have with the client, or because they have asked for proposals and/or quotes prior to entering into a contract. We need to hold personal information so we can provide project proposals, quotations or reports on ongoing or finalised projects.
• For more information about this, please see our GDPR statement