By KAREN BEAUDWAY
Advances in research computing have propelled Pitt to the forefront of research, with the University ranking third nationally in NIH funding in FY23. Researchers utilize robust technology to collect, store, and analyze data; document and manage lab processes; and work with collaborators. Pitt IT supports the work of researchers, so they can focus on doing what they do best: making the University of Pittsburgh one of the top research institutions in the world! Here are the top six tools researchers at Pitt can start using today.
1. Collect participant data (Qualtrics)
For research involving self-reporting or participant feedback, you need a robust survey tool that is easy to use. TheOnline Survey System (Qualtrics)enables you to create and distribute surveys for everything from collecting demographic info or tracking daily activity, to monitoring symptoms or exploring participant beliefs. The system requires minimal experience or training, is extremely user-friendly, and is available at no cost to all Pitt researchers, faculty, staff, and students. Qualtrics securely gathers and stores survey data, allows for complex decision trees based on previous responses, provides easy access to raw data, compiles and analyzes results, and creates high-quality charts and graphs to visually present the data.
2. Document and manage lab activities (LabArchives)
Pitt offersElectronic Research Notebooks (LabArchives)at no cost to help you keep track of all your notes, data, and findings in one place, from nearly any type of device. ELNs can be used to organize and manage all aspects of lab activity, from study protocols and testing progress to documenting results. Notebooks can include any kind of input, including text, tables, images, and sketches. You can also share and collaborate on notebooks with research partners and lab staff.
In addition, LabArchives Scheduler and Inventory modules help manage and organize all aspects of lab activity. Scheduler provides a calendar and scheduling service to simplify the management and booking of equipment and spaces, such as microscopes, flow cytometers, recording space, microphones, and other items. Inventory enables you to streamline inventory management via a simple, customizable solution that allows you to include inventory types and storage locations, add and manage lab inventory items, and generate shopping lists.
3. Store large data sets (Enterprise Cloud Storage)
Enterprise Cloud Computing(ECC)gives researchers access to virtual computing resources in a safe and reliable way. The most widely used ECC platform for large-scale storage and robust compute power isMicrosoft Azure. Azure provides resources to tailor specific solutions to your data storage needs, without the extra time or cost of purchasing, setting up and maintaining a server. Azure lets you archive data inexpensively, provide shared file storage, and store and compute data in an environment with HIPAA-compliant protections for data privacy.
4. Transfer large data sets (Globus)
Research often generates very large data sets, which presents challenges when transferring and sharing the data with collaborators. Pitt’sEnterprise Data Transfer Service (Globus)subscription lets users transfer and share files with ease, no matter the location of you or your collaborators. You can move and share data between on-premises and cloud storage, with external institutions, and between endpoints/devices. Users can also develop applications and access gateways by leveraging Globus’s advanced identity management, single sign-on, search, authorization, and automation capabilities. A free Globus subscription is available to all Pitt researchers, faculty, and students.
5. Visualize your results (BioRender)
BioRenderis used to create and edit scientific diagrams and illustrations for use in posters, papers, presentations, and publications. The web-based app has over 40,000 icons and a large stock image collection that spans subjects such as neuroscience, immunology, microbiology, and more. The app makes it easy to create sophisticated figures by using an intuitive interface with drag and drop tools—no artistic skills needed. BioRender also lets you work collaboratively on figures. Faculty and staff receive BioRender at a significantly discounted price (just $100/year for each user). Students have free access to help them learn how to visually present scientific concepts and data in their projects and papers.
6. Access supercomputing resources (ARCS)
TheCenter for Research Computing (CRC)and thePittsburgh Supercomputing Center (PSC)work closely with Pitt IT to provide Pitt researchers with the computing power needed to engage in large-scale processing. They are used by researchers in STEM fields, who often engage in large-scale modeling and simulations, as well as those in the humanities, who need high-throughput computing to analyze large repositories of digitized source materials.
The CRC supports leading-edge research with free access to up to 25,000 computational hours on advanced computing hardware and software for fields across the entire research community, along with training and consultation by CRC research faculty. The PSC is a joint venture with Pitt and CMU, and provides forward-looking technology solutions to advance research nationwide while also coordinating the research endeavors of each university to enhance cooperation.
Get started and get help
Learn more about theIT resources for researcherson the Pitt IT website, including what each app can do and how to access each service. If you need help with any of the resources or need advice about addressing a technical issue your research project is facing, contactPitt IT’s Technology Help Desk. You can also access a wealth of information about support and training services through:
Pitt ResearchandOffice of Sponsored Programs (OSP)
Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI)
Health Sciences Library System (HSLS)
Karen Beaudway is a blogger for Pitt IT.
