PROTEOBASE is a data repository and web platform operated and managed by EuropaDX, Inc. (“EuropaDX,” “we,” “us,” or “our”). This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard information when you access or use the PROTEOBASE website, platform, and related services (collectively, the “Service”).

PROTEOBASE does not currently operate as a separate legal entity. EuropaDX, Inc. is the data controller responsible for personal information processed through the Service.

This Privacy Policy applies only to PROTEOBASE and does not apply to third-party websites, tools, or services that may be linked from or integrated with the Service.

By accessing or using the Service, you consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of information as described in this Privacy Policy.

1. Information We Collect

The information we collect depends on how you interact with the Service.

a. Information You Provide

We may collect personal information that you voluntarily provide, including:

• Name, email address, institutional or organizational affiliation
• Account credentials and profile information
• Communications with us (e.g., support requests or feedback)
• Billing or payment-related information, if applicable

As part of the Service, you may upload proteomics, mass spectrometry, or other scientific research data and related metadata (“Scientific Data”).

b. Public and Private Scientific Data

• Private Data: Data designated as private or restricted is accessible only to you and individuals or groups you authorize.
• Public Data: Data you designate as public may be accessed, used, cited, and redistributed by other users and the broader scientific community, subject to any applicable license you select (e.g., CC0, CC BY).

Once Scientific Data is made public, it may be copied, redistributed, or reused by third parties and may not be fully retractable.

c. Automatically Collected Information

When you access the Service, we may automatically collect certain technical information, including:

• IP address
• Browser type and operating system
• Date and time of access
• Pages viewed and actions taken within the Service

This information is used for security, analytics, and service improvement.

d. Cookies and Similar Technologies

We use cookies and similar technologies to operate the Service, maintain sessions, enhance usability, and understand usage patterns. You may manage cookies through your browser settings, but disabling cookies may limit certain functionality.

2. How We Use Information

We use collected information to:

• Provide, operate, and maintain the Service
• Create and manage user accounts
• Enable data upload, storage, sharing, discovery, and citation
• Respond to inquiries and provide user support
• Improve performance, reliability, and security
• Communicate important service or policy updates
• Comply with applicable legal and regulatory obligations

We do not sell personal information.

3. Legal Bases for Processing (GDPR)

If you are located in the European Economic Area (EEA), EuropaDX processes personal data under one or more of the following lawful bases:

• Your consent
• Performance of a contract (providing access to the Service)
• Legitimate interests (operating, improving, and securing the Service)
• Compliance with legal obligations

4. Sharing and Disclosure of Information

We may share information in the following circumstances:

a. Service Providers

With trusted third-party service providers who support hosting, cloud infrastructure, authentication, analytics, or customer support, under confidentiality and data-processing agreements.

b. Legal and Safety Requirements

Where disclosure is reasonably necessary to comply with law, legal process, enforce terms, protect security, or safeguard the rights and safety of EuropaDX, PROTEOBASE users, or the public.

c. Business Transfers

In connection with a merger, acquisition, restructuring, or sale of assets involving EuropaDX, information may be transferred as part of that transaction.

d. User-Directed Sharing

When you choose to share Scientific Data with collaborators or make data public, information is disclosed according to your instructions.

5. Data Retention

We retain personal information only as long as necessary to provide the Service and fulfill the purposes described in this Policy, unless longer retention is required by law or for legitimate research, archival, audit, or compliance purposes. Public Scientific Data may be retained indefinitely to support scientific reproducibility, long-term access, and citation.

6. Your Rights and Choices

Depending on your jurisdiction, you may have the right to:

• Access, correct, or update your personal information
• Request deletion of your personal data
• Withdraw consent where processing is based on consent
• Object to or restrict certain processing
• Lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority (EEA residents)

Many account details can be managed directly through your account settings. For additional requests, contact us as described below.

7. Account Deletion

You may request deletion of your account at any time. Upon deletion:

• Private account information will be removed or anonymized where feasible
• Publicly shared Scientific Data and metadata may remain available
• Certain records may be retained for security, legal, or compliance purposes

8. International Data Transfers

The Service is operated by EuropaDX in the United States. If you access the Service from outside the U.S., your information may be transferred to and processed in jurisdictions with different data protection laws. Where required, appropriate safeguards such as Standard Contractual Clauses are used.

9. Children’s Privacy

The Service is not intended for individuals under the age of 18, and we do not knowingly collect personal information from children.

10. Security

We use commercially reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect information. However, no method of transmission or storage is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

11. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Updates will be posted on this page with an updated “Last updated” date. Continued use of the Service after changes take effect constitutes acceptance.

12. Contact Us

For questions about this Privacy Policy or PROTEOBASE data practices, contact:

EuropaDX, Inc.
2205 152nd Ave NE
Redmond, WA 98052
Email: support@proteobase.org