extend or change the application's scope Answered

Siyang Luo

Hi everyone,

I’m reaching out for some advice regarding our UKB application. Our project was approved back in April 2024, and we’ve made some progress with the data analysis. However, we’ve encountered a couple of issues that I’d appreciate help with:

  1. We recently applied for access to individual residential address data (with 1 km precision) to analyze the effects of environmental factors like green spaces, noise, and water quality on cognitive functioning and mental health. Our original application included investigating both genetic and environmental factors influencing cognitive functioning and gene-environment interactions related to mental health. However, when we submitted the scientific rationale for this data request, the response we received was that the proposed research "is not health-related, in the public interest, or in scope of the application." Since our original aim already mentioned analyzing environmental influences, I’m struggling to understand why this request is considered outside the scope of our approved project. Has anyone else had a similar experience or could offer any clarification on this?
  2. We’re also looking to extend or change the scope of our proposal. Previously, there was an option in the AMS system under the Projects Request section to extend the scope of research. However, this option seems to have disappeared, leaving only the options to change tiers or extend the duration. I've also checked the AMS user guide and the official website, and it mentions: “Each dataset must only be used for the approved purpose of the project it was released under. Further research may  require a separate access application.”Does anyone know if there’s still a way to extend or change the scope of a project without new costs? And if so, what’s the best way to go about it?

Thanks in advance for any insights or suggestions you might have!

Comments

1 comment

Date Votes
  • Comment author
    Matt H The helpers that keep the community running smoothly. UKB Community team Access Team

    Dear Siyang Luo

    Thanks for your post. 

    For your first question, we have contacted you via email earlier today to provide further clarification as to why your request for restricted home location data was declined by our Scientific Team. 

    Regarding your second question, extending the scope does not incur a fee and you will be able to update your scope when you submit your annual report. 

    Please note, all updated research must be health related and in the public interest. Any research you undertake using UK Biobank data must meet this requirement, and will not be approved if it does not. As such you must ensure that all research will benefit the health of people, and have a clear benefit to society and the quality of life of people.

    Kind regards, 

    Matt 

    0

Please sign in to leave a comment.