Introduction
This Terms of Reference serves as guidance outlining the intentions and aims of the HIC User Group (HUG), established [DATE]. This aims to ensure clarity and alignment of objectives among HUG members. This group is open to all users of HICs Trusted Research Environment (TRE) and will advocate open science and community building.
Purpose and Scope
The primary purpose of this group is to provide a positive engagement space between HIC as TRE providers, and all TRE users. The proposed format will be a hybrid approach with a combination of in-person and on-line meetings scheduled for 1 hour. HIC staff will provide short talks (approximately 15 minutes) sharing their expertise and knowledge on one topic, followed by questions, answers, and open discussions based on the topic of that week.
Objectives
The objective of HUG is to provide a supportive space to share best practices in sensitive data analysis using TREs, and open data science, hopefully learning from one another. These meetings will be relatively informal and should be considered a ‘safe space’ to learn and discuss commonalities amongst TRE users. Through regular communication and exchange of expertise, we aim to facilitate knowledge sharing, best practices dissemination and collaboration to enhance the efficacy of our services provided by HIC. The format and scope of the group will be reviewed after the initial launch, and this ToR reviewed as well to ensure the working arrangements fit the needs of everyone.
Membership
All TRE users whether academic, clinical, commercial, and regardless of career stage are welcome to the group. There will be no hierarchical structures or specific member roles, other than the delivery of HUG meetings by HIC. TRE users are encouraged to join the group for professional development, community engagement and collaboration, access to resources, and networking opportunities. The hope is that HUG can benefit all TRE users as well as HIC as a TRE provider.
Behaviours
Members of HUG are expected to engage in respectful and professional communication at all times. Constructive feedback and active debate are encouraged, if provided in a supportive manner, aimed at improving the quality of science within the group. Inclusivity is critical for developing science and all members will have their perspectives valued and respected. The HUG will embrace diversity of all members with varying experiences, backgrounds, and insights.
Confidentiality
It is important to note that many members will be discussing the use of sensitive data and should prioritise the security of that in discussions. However, Chatham House Rules will apply, whereby information from the discussion is allowed to be used but speaker’s identities remain private. Members must adhere to the data security protocols outlined in the TRE User Agreement, with reference to the legal implications of significant events, i.e., no sensitive data will be disclosed. This level of professionalism is expected from all group members upholding appropriate professionalism and integrity.