Privacy Policy

Introduction

SONLab (Structural Biology and Biochemistry Research Laboratory) at Middle East Technical University is committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring the security of your personal information. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, store, and protect data when you interact with our website and services.

This policy applies to all users of the SONLab website (sonlab-bio.metu.edu.tr) and any associated online services, including our member dashboard and research tools.

Information We Collect

Automatically Collected Information

When you visit our website, we may automatically collect certain technical information, including:

• IP address and geolocation data
• Browser type and version
• Operating system information
• Pages visited and time spent on our site
• Referring website information
• Device information

Voluntarily Provided Information

We may collect information you voluntarily provide, such as:

• Name and contact information through contact forms
• Academic and professional information for collaboration inquiries
• Account information for member dashboard access
• Research data submitted through our tools and platforms

How We Use Your Information

We use the collected information for the following purposes:

Research Data

Research data submitted through our tools is used solely for scientific research purposes and is handled according to academic research ethics and data protection standards.

Data Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell, trade, or otherwise transfer your personal information to third parties without your consent, except in the following circumstances:

• Academic Collaboration: With collaborating research institutions for joint research projects
• Legal Requirements: When required by law, court order, or government regulation
• Service Providers: With trusted third-party service providers who assist in operating our website (e.g., hosting services, analytics providers)
• Research Publication: Anonymized or aggregated data may be published in academic journals

Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your personal information against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. These measures include:

• Secure socket layer (SSL) encryption for data transmission
• Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments
• Access controls and authentication systems
• Secure data storage solutions
• Regular backups and disaster recovery procedures

Cookies and Tracking Technologies

Our website uses cookies and similar tracking technologies to enhance your browsing experience. These include:

• Essential Cookies: Required for basic website functionality
• Analytics Cookies: Help us understand how visitors interact with our site
• Functional Cookies: Remember your preferences and settings

You can control cookie settings through your browser preferences. However, disabling certain cookies may affect website functionality.

Your Rights

Under applicable data protection laws, you have the right to:

• Access your personal information
• Correct inaccurate information
• Request deletion of your personal information
• Object to processing of your personal information
• Request data portability
• Withdraw consent where processing is based on consent

To exercise these rights, please contact us using the information provided below.

International Data Transfers

Some of our service providers may be located outside Turkey. When we transfer personal information internationally, we ensure appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your data in accordance with applicable data protection laws.

Mobile Applications and Advertising ID

SONLab provides a mobile member application for Android devices. In compliance with Android 13 (API level 33) and later requirements, we declare the following regarding advertising ID usage:

Data Collection in Mobile App

Our mobile application only collects necessary information for:

• User authentication and member dashboard access
• Research data submission and synchronization
• Application functionality and user preferences
• Crash reporting and bug fixing (anonymous data only)

All data collection in our mobile app follows the same privacy principles outlined in this policy and is conducted solely for academic research and laboratory management purposes.

Children's Privacy

Our website is not intended for children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you believe we have collected such information, please contact us immediately.

Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or applicable laws. We will notify you of any material changes by posting the updated policy on our website and updating the "Last Updated" date.