Privacy Policy

The Advanced Centre for Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cell Research in Cutaneous Biology (AcREM-STEM), Department of Zoology, University of Kerala, is committed to protecting the privacy and personal data of students, researchers, collaborators, study participants, employees, and visitors. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and safeguard personal information in accordance with applicable Indian laws and institutional regulations.

Information We Collect

• Personal identification information such as name, contact details, institutional affiliation, and designation
• Academic and research information including educational records, research data, and publications
• Biological and health-related data collected only for approved research projects with informed consent
• Technical information such as IP address, browser type, and usage data
• Administrative information required for admissions, employment, grants, collaborations, or events

Purpose of Data Collection

• Conducting and managing academic and research activities
• Academic training, evaluation, and institutional administration
• Compliance with legal, ethical, and funding requirements
• Improving services, facilities, and digital platforms

Legal Basis and Consent

Personal data is collected based on informed consent, institutional obligations, legal requirements, and ethical committee approvals where applicable. Participation in research studies is voluntary, and consent may be withdrawn in accordance with approved guidelines.

Data Sharing and Disclosure

• Data is not sold or rented to third parties
• Information may be shared with authorized university departments
• Information may be shared with funding agencies, collaborators, or regulatory bodies when required
• Research data is published only in anonymized or aggregated form
• Disclosure may occur when required by law or court order

Data Security

Appropriate technical and organizational measures are implemented to protect personal data from unauthorized access, loss, misuse, or disclosure. Access to sensitive information is restricted to authorized personnel only.

Data Retention

Personal data is retained only for the duration necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected or as required by applicable laws, funding agencies, or institutional policies.

Rights of Individuals

• Right to access personal data
• Right to request correction of inaccurate information
• Right to withdraw consent where applicable
• Right to request deletion of data, subject to legal and research obligations

Cookies and Website Usage

The AcREM-STEM website may use cookies or similar technologies to improve user experience. Users can control or disable cookies through their browser settings.

Compliance with Laws

• Information Technology Act, 2000 and related rules
• Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023
• University of Kerala regulations
• ICMR and institutional ethical guidelines where applicable

Changes to This Policy

AcREM-STEM reserves the right to modify or update this Privacy Policy as required. Any changes will be communicated through the official website or institutional notices.

Contact Information

Advanced Centre for Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cell Research in Cutaneous Biology (AcREM-STEM)
Department of Zoology
University of Kerala, North Campus
Kariavattom P.O., Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India