Privacy Policy

This privacy policy describes how the Society for Developmental Biology (SDB) uses information collected through this website.  SDB may change this policy from time to time by giving users advance notice of the changes and posting an updated version of this policy on this page.  By using this site, you accept and agree to the terms and conditions of this privacy policy.

Collection of Information
In general, this website gathers information about users as a group, such as which areas users visit most frequently and what services users access the most.  This website automatically collects information about user’s IP address, browser, device, operating system, domain name, date and time of access, and general location.

SDB requires users to submit personally identifying information to become a member, order publications, make donations, register for an event, submit an abstract, apply for travel awards, grants or programs, and volunteer.  This information typically includes personally identifying information such as name, email address, mailing address, telephone number, institutional affiliation, academic information, and credit card information.

Credit Card Information
Once your credit card information has been passed to the credit card processing company for verification, only partial information is retained by SDB for future identification of the transaction. This partial information includes the last four digits of the credit card number and card holder’s address when available. We never retain the CVV number. All credit card information is kept within a secure database with limited access by authorized staff.

Cookies
This website uses cookies to maintain user information between visits such as logins. You can set your browser to notify you when you receive a cookie, so you may accept or decline it.

Legal Basis for Collecting and Processing Personal Information
There are several legal bases for SDB’s collection and processing of personal information. These include:

  • For the legitimate interests of SDB, including the several uses listed above;
  • To perform a contract;
  • Based on consent; and
  • Legal compliance.

Use of Information by SDB
SDB uses website data in aggregate to analyze site traffic and determine what is most relevant to users. 

SDB uses personally identifying information for several purposes, including:

  • to complete transactions as requested by users, including membership; event registration and attendance; fulfilling orders; and responding to questions;
  • to make users aware of additional SDB programs, services and products that may be of interest to them;
  • to administer and improve the SDB website; and
  • to ensure that content from the SDB website is presented most effectively.

Retention of Personal Information
Personal information is retained by SDB for so long as necessary or useful to pursue the legitimate interests of SDB. In general, SDB will retain user information to enforce proper use of this website and for management and administration of SDB’s programs. Other factors may include: the duration of the business or contractual relationship between SDB and a member or user; archiving of historical information; and legal requirements, including limitations periods during which a legal claim might be brought.

Sharing Personal Information with Third Parties
If completion of a requested transaction requires sharing information with an outside party, such as a credit card company, SDB endeavors to work only with reputable partners.

SDB provides the name and address of its current members to approved vendors such as publishers, educational institutions, and other scientific vendors through a paid mailing list. 

Only SDB members who opt in on their membership portal under “Permissions” receive these services. 

SDB reserves the right to access, store, and disclose any information that it reasonably considers is necessary to:  (a) meet legal requirements, (b) enforce its terms of use, including investigation of potential violations, (c) detect, prevent, or otherwise address fraud, security, or technical issues, (d) respond to user support requests, or (e) protect the rights, property, or safety of the website, its users, and the public. 

SDB also may share personal data in the event of a merger or similar transaction.
Except as described above, SDB does not sell, rent, or share the personal information collected through this website.

Please be aware that this website includes applications, advertisements, and links to websites owned by third parties.  This policy does not apply to portions owned by third parties and SDB is not responsible for the practices of third parties.

Accessing Your Information
You may review and edit your account information at any time by logging in to your membership portal. You may update your approval for certain uses by selecting the appropriate box under “Permissions” in your member profile.

Security of Information
SDB uses reasonable administrative, physical, and technical safeguards to protect personally identifying information in its records, though SDB cannot guarantee against unauthorized third party access.  Encryption is used to protect sensitive information submitted through this website, such as credit card numbers.  Only employees with a need to know a user’s information are permitted access to personally identifiable information.  The equipment upon which personally identifiable information is stored is kept in a secure environment.

More Information
Questions and concerns regarding this privacy policy can be directed to SDB at sdb@sdbonline.org.

Effective date:  July 10, 2024