Standardisation of data formats alone is insufficient for research portability: standardisation lags data generation (particularly for research using bespoke formats) and is not intrinsically multimodal. A given clinical research question requires a specified set of variables. Cross-border/federated portability requires this multimodal dataset be present at each site and ingestible despite heterogeneity of the underlying data formats and structures.

The NextGen multimodal integration object (MMIO) allows (i) conversion of the underlying constellation of multimodal formats into a user-defined harmonized AI/ML ready form, (ii) application of site-specific governance and regulatory requirements, and (iii) embedded authentication, audit, and integrity functionality. NextGen functionality allows true portability of multimodal, multiomic research in a secure, auditable, and compliant manner independent of member-state location and underlying data composition.