The Aotearoa Genomics Data Repository (AGDR) https://docs.agdr.org.nz/ manages metadata as described by a regularly updated dictionary https://data.agdr.org.nz/DD . This dictionary ensures that all crucial information enabling reuse of genomic data is captured alongside the data. It consists of various nodes, each with mandatory and optional properties, collectively forming the metadata.
The metadata enables users to search for samples necessary for their research and provides essential information about these samples.
Researchers, upon approval, can submit genomic data generated from biological and environmental samples, along with their associated metadata, to the AGDR team. This metadata will be uploaded to the website and can be searched on the projects page https://data.agdr.org.nz/discovery or the exploration page https://data.agdr.org.nz/explorer.
NeSI provides a Google Sheets template, compatible with Microsoft Excel, for filling in the metadata, which is then uploaded to AGDR. You can request a copy of the template by contacting gasupport@nesi.org.nz. The spreadsheet is a simplified version of the dictionary to facilitate researchers' work.
NeSI also offers a tool called the AGDR Validator, which checks the correctness of the metadata, consistency between nodes, and field formats. We highly recommend using this tool to identify and correct any issues in the spreadsheet before submitting it to NeSI for upload. This will streamline the process and reduce the need for follow-up questions.