Privacy and research

Since 25 May 2018, a new European privacy legislation has been in force: the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Compared to previous legislation, it does not change the principles substantially, but makes a number of new emphases.

The 'Generic Code of Conduct for processing personal data and confidential information' that is in force at Ghent University already reflects the general principles that must also be applied to academic research.

The following guidelines inform Ghent University researchers about the impact of GDPR on their research.

Specific questions about the application of the privacy legislation can be directed to .

General info about GDPR

The questions below outline the general framework and go through a number of basic concepts that are discussed in the GDPR.

The research plan

The questions in this section must be addressed when you, as a researcher or supervisor, are developing the research plan.

By going through and answering a number of basic questions in this phase, you ensure that no unexpected problems arise at the start of your research. Omitting to do this could ultimately lead to the research not being able to be carried out due to incorrect processing of personal data as required by the GDPR.

During your research

After your research