Biologists need modern data infrastructure on campus

Abstract

Modern tools for biological research, especially microscopy, have rapidly advanced in recent years, which has led to the generation of increasingly large amounts of data on a regular basis. The result is that scientists desperately need state-of-the-art technical infrastructure for raw data storage, transfer, and processing. These scientists currently rely on outdated ways to move and store data, costing valuable time and risking loss of valuable data. While the community is aware of modern approaches to data management and high-level principles (including FAIR), highly-trained and highly-paid scientists are forced to spend time dealing with technical problems, which can ultimately costs more than providing storage and a fast network on campus. Here we provide concise arguments for better infrastructure, blueprints of possible solutions, and advice in navigating the political process of solving this issue. We suggest, as a broad solution, separate NIH-managed fund for supporting universities and institutes in deployment of data storage and long-term data sharing for all funded projects. This position statement is open for more contributors from imaging, life sciences, and other disciplines. Please contact us with your experience and perspective.