Q: Is the AviSample Network a databank (data repository)?
A: No. The main aim of the project is collect and store information on sample presence distributed in individual collections around the globe and facilitate the access to this information.
Q: How do I benefit from uploading the information on my samples?
A: The already-collected samples could be used (unpublished data) or reused (published data) for various and multiple research ideas. Wide reuse of samples could yield large-scale, long-term and multispecies projects and the collaboration between multiple researchers could increase multidisciplinarity and bring interesting interpretations. Finally, the collaboration between the sample collector and researcher reusing the samples might be mutually beneficial.
Q: I have been collecting samples for three seasons/at multiple sampling sites/from multiple species/various tissue types were collected. Do I have to upload the sample descriptions for years/sites/species/tissue types separately?
A: Yes, we do aim to collect as detailed information as possible. Detailed information on sample descriptions will also facilitate future request assessments.
Q: I have a large dataset of samples (at least 10 sample descriptions). Do I have to upload each sample description separately?
A: We are really interested in your data. Download a XLSX template ready for fill-in here. Please send the filled file to metadata@avisample.net. We will check the file and upload it to the database.
Please note that we will have to link the sample descriptions with your account (for future requests) so do not forget to create an account and send us also your login.
Q: Do I have to pay for storing the sample descriptions in the AviSample Network database or for requesting the sample descriptions from the database?
A: No, both storing and requesting is entirely free. We believe that the reuse of the avian samples might be mutually beneficial for both research collecting the samples and for those reusing the same samples.
Q: What taxonomic authority do you use?
A: We use regularly updated Clemens checklist.
Q: How many sample descriptions may I request?
A: There is no limitation. Individual researchers will decide whether to provide access to their samples or not. We thus recommend to carefully prepare a project description prior to requesting the samples.
Q: I am an amateur ornithologist working outside academia. May I store sample descriptions or request samples for my projects?
A: Of course! We are not limiting the access to the database or samples to anyone.
Q: Do other users see the collector identity (name, email address) in the detail of the sample description?
A: The user identity is confidential and not presented publicly in the database. If a researcher decides to request access to samples, the AviSample Network will notify the owner of the samples and the owner will decide whether to grant or reject the access to his contact information.
Q: Will my name be exposed after I reject a request?
A: No, your name and contact information will remain confidential.