Privacy Policy

Last updated: February 24th, 2026

The MetaSyn Network (“we,” “our,” or “us”) is committed to protecting the privacy, confidentiality, and security of personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect information obtained through our website and related activities, including research publication dissemination and recruitment.

This Website presents research publications conducted by our group and provides opportunities for individuals to join or collaborate with the MetaSyn Network.

By using this Website, you agree to the practices described in this Privacy Policy.

1. Information We Collect

We may collect the following categories of personal information:

Information You Provide Voluntarily
  • Name
  • Email address
  • Institutional or professional affiliation
  • Curriculum vitae (CV) or career information
  • Research interests
  • Application or recruitment details
  • Communications submitted through contact forms
  • Any additional information you choose to provide
Automatically Collected Information
  • IP address
  • Device type and operating system
  • Browser type
  • Website usage data
  • Cookies or analytics data

We do not intentionally collect sensitive health or medical data through this Website unless explicitly required for research participation processes and with appropriate consent.

2. How We Use Information

We use personal information for the following purposes:

  • Responding to inquiries or communications
  • Reviewing recruitment or membership applications
  • Managing collaborations and membership records
  • Providing updates related to research opportunities
  • Improving Website functionality and user experience
  • Ensuring security and preventing misuse
  • Meeting legal, regulatory, or institutional obligations

We will only use personal information for the purposes for which it was collected unless we reasonably consider another purpose compatible with the original purpose.

3. Confidentiality of Member and Applicant Data

We treat all member, applicant, and collaborator information as confidential.

Safeguards include:

  • Restricted access to authorized personnel only
  • Secure storage systems
  • Administrative and technical protections
  • Confidentiality obligations for staff or collaborators

We do not sell or trade personal data.

4. Legal Bases for Processing (UK and European Economic Area)

For individuals located in the United Kingdom or European Economic Area (EEA), processing of personal data is based on:

  • Consent
  • Legitimate interests (research collaboration, recruitment, and academic networking)
  • Legal obligations
  • Performance of a contract (where applicable)

We process data in accordance with applicable data protection laws, including the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the EU General Data Protection Regulation (EU GDPR).

5. United States Privacy Notice

For individuals located in the United States:

  • We may collect personal information as described in this Policy.
  • We do not sell personal information.
  • Depending on your state of residence (such as California), you may have rights including:
    • Access to personal information
    • Correction of inaccurate information
    • Deletion requests
    • Information about data sharing practices

Requests may be submitted using the contact information below.

6. Australia Privacy Notice

For individuals located in Australia, we handle personal information in accordance with the Australian Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).

You may request:

  • Access to your personal information
  • Correction of inaccurate data
  • Information about how your data is handled

Complaints may be directed to us first, and if unresolved, to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC).

7. Data Sharing and Disclosure

We may share personal information only when necessary:

  • With authorized administrators or research coordinators
  • With service providers supporting Website hosting or operations (under confidentiality obligations)
  • With affiliated institutions where collaboration requires it
  • When required by law or regulatory authorities
  • To protect rights, safety, or security

We do not share personal data for commercial advertising purposes.

8. International Data Transfers

Because our network may operate internationally, personal information may be transferred and stored in countries outside your jurisdiction.

Where required by law, we implement safeguards such as:

  • Contractual data protection clauses
  • Secure data handling procedures
  • Institutional compliance measures

9. Data Retention

We retain personal information only for as long as necessary to:

  • Evaluate recruitment or collaboration opportunities
  • Maintain membership or administrative records
  • Meet legal or regulatory obligations
  • Resolve disputes or enforce agreements

When information is no longer required, we will securely delete or anonymize it where feasible.

10. Your Privacy Rights

Depending on your jurisdiction, you may have rights to:

  • Access personal information we hold about you
  • Request correction of inaccurate information
  • Request deletion of your data
  • Restrict or object to certain processing
  • Withdraw consent
  • Request data portability (where applicable)
  • Lodge a complaint with a regulatory authority

We will respond to requests within applicable legal timeframes.

11. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

We may use cookies or similar technologies to:

  • Improve Website functionality
  • Understand usage patterns
  • Enhance user experience

You may control cookies through your browser settings.

12. Data Security

We implement reasonable administrative, technical, and organizational safeguards to protect personal information, including:

  • Secure servers and storage
  • Access controls
  • Encryption where appropriate
  • Confidentiality procedures

However, no method of transmission or storage is completely secure.

13. Children’s Privacy

This Website is not intended for individuals under the age of 18. We do not knowingly collect personal information from minors without appropriate consent.

14. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. The updated version will be posted on this page with the revised date.

Continued use of the Website after changes indicates acceptance of the updated Policy.

15. Contact Information

For privacy questions, data requests, or complaints, please contact:

MetaSyn Network
Email: metasynetwork@gmail.com