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CDSA Announces Launch of First Service: The Protected Network for Research (PNR)

Colleagues, 

The Compute and Data Services Alliance (CDSA) is pleased to announce the launch of its first service: the Protected Network for Research (PNR). The PNR is improving support for researchers who work with regulated and sensitive research data, other than DUHS electronic Protected Health Information (ePHI). The Protected Analytics Computing Environment (PACE), operated by DHTS, is available to researchers throughout Duke working with ePHI or other regulated human subject data.

The newly launched PNR consists of technical services - an on-premises secure enclave to store and analyze sensitive research data - and facilitative services to assist with necessary regulatory requirements - contracts, security reviews, and IRB protocols. Researchers can receive full-service assistance when they need it and use self-service tools when they do not. 

The PNR is a service of the CDSA, a new faculty-driven initiative coordinated between the Office of Information Technology, the Duke University Libraries, and the Office for Research & Innovation. This alliance aims to respond to the ever-evolving needs of the research community and the increasing complexity of conducting, sharing, and publishing research today.  

We have scheduled PNR information sessions that are open to everyone: 

The CDSA, introduced in May 2024, enables Duke researchers to focus on discovery, innovation, and scholarship by providing comprehensive services and support.  This includes: 

  • Centralized, enhanced services and adding more no- and low-cost resources  
  • Providing rapid support response, consultations, and training  
  • Offering competitive services to attract and retain research talent  

More CDSA services are coming soon: 

  • The Duke Data Attic – a low-cost, easy to use storage system for electronic data generated from research activities. Provides an un-curated, flexible place to store and share infrequently used data or data that may be reused. 
  • Enhanced allocations in the Duke Compute Cluster (DCC) – Expanded technical resources for faculty and new allocations for PhD students.  
  • The Finder Tool – Self-service tool to find best-fitting and allowable tools and platforms for data collection, storage, compute and archiving.   

To stay up to date on CDSA initiatives and services, join our mailing list, ask a question or visit our website. 

 

Sincerely,  

Tracy Futhey 

Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer 

 

Jenny Lodge 

Vice President for Research & Innovation 

 

Joseph Salem 

Vice Provost for Library Affairs  

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