The Global Change Research Institute (GCRI) of the Czech Academy of Sciences has achieved a significant milestone in its development by being the first institute of this scientific institution to obtain ISO 27001 certification. This international standard for information security management systems (ISMS) not only recognizes the high level of data security and information systems at the institute but is also a crucial element for further development of its research activities.
“The ISO 27001 certification is a globally recognized standard that sets requirements for the security and protection of information. For scientific institutions like GCRI, it is particularly important as it ensures that all valuable assets, including research data and personal information, are protected against unauthorized access, alteration, and are adequately available,” said Aleš Roček, who played a significant role in implementing the standard.
For the GCRI, whose primary activity is researching global changes, data protection is key. ISO 27001 allows the institute to more effectively manage and protect research data, enhancing the integrity and credibility of its results.
“This certification also supports the implementation of best practices in IT and improves the overall IT infrastructure of the institute, which is essential for managing large datasets that researchers encounter,” noted Vladimír Hebelka, head of the Information Technology Department.
The Scientific Secretary, Jiří Kolman, added, “The ISO 27001 certification further enhances the reputation of GCRI as an excellent scientific center, emphasizing quality and security in research. By demonstrating its capabilities in information protection and management, the institute further strengthens its position in the international research environment. This allows GCRI to better compete for international grants and projects, which often require strict adherence to information security rules.”
In addition to the new ISO 27001 certification, GCRI has also maintained its previous certifications of the ISO 9001 quality management standard and the ISO 14001 environmental management system.