The project, which will last six months, aims to simplify and speed up access to public sector data and involves Nexer Digital building a Data Access Service tool for the RDS.

The Data Access Service would allow researchers to identify and access data without compromising scrutiny or security, and the service will act as the foundation for a new data access platform.

The project will also see the RDS website redesigned as a better point of access for researchers and to better communicate the RDS’s work.

Nexer Digital will also design a guided, accessible application process for researchers to access public data sets, as well as advice for researchers.

RDS has previously worked with the Scottish Government Digital Transformation Service to understand user needs, explore a future service offer and formulate recommendations.

Hugh Wallace, chief information officer at Research Data Scotland, said: “One of the main reasons that RDS exists is to simplify and speed up access to public sector data, and in turn enable this data to be used for research purposes in the public good.

“Working together we have the chance to design and streamline the system to enhance applications and approvals processes and offer an end-to-end digital journey for the first time.”

Shaun Gomm, commercial director at Nexer Digital, said: “The work Research Data Scotland is doing is vital to providing simpler access to data and research that already exists.  

“Digital transformation should be a considered process and make sure legacy and fragmented systems can be joined in a simple and accessible way, reducing the time it takes to find information, and boosting the number of people that have access to it.”