What is the Research Commons? (2)
The Data-Centric Science Research Commons is a unique, first-of-its-kind project, which combines the triad of data platforms, modeling and analytical platforms, and human resource development to form a cutting-edge research platform that is leading the information age, as well as forming a core hub for open international data sharing and collaborative research. Its structure combines the four institutions of the Organization (the National Institute of Polar Research, the National Institute of Informatics, the Institute of Statistical Mathematics, and the National Institute of Genetics), along with its two affiliated centers (the Transdisciplinary Research Integration Center, and the Database Center for Life Science), and collaborates with around 100 universities and research institutions.
Data Platform
Data platform builds(makes or constructs) large-scale databases in various fields to act as a foundation for promoting data-centric science, and promotes the development of integration technologies for these databases. The Organization is already promoting the research and development of four databases, housing: (1) earth and environment data, (2) life science data (DBCLS), (3) human and social data, and the newly added (4) data-centric chemistry data. The unique features of each field are being taken into account to conduct cutting-edge database development and to promote the rapid provision of these to the research community.
Modeling and Analytical Platform
This project provides a research environment for advanced utilization of data provided through the data platform creation project, grasping the structure behind the issues, and generating solutions. Based on a network of excellence (NOE) agreement with advanced research institutions, the initiative is promoting four research projects: (1) image data analysis - data structure and visualization/search support technology, (2) data mining, (3) data assimilation and simulation technology support, and (4) e-science platform technology.
NB: This project was originally promoted to develop the Statistical Mathematics Platform, and Information Platform projects of the Organization's Transdisciplinary Research Integration Center.
T-Shaped and π-Shaped Human Resource Development
This project systematically develops T-shaped human resources (who possess methodological knowledge which cuts across disciplines, as well as knowledge that is specific to certain fields), or π-shaped human resources (who have expertise rooted in two or more field areas, and the ability to methodologically link these). This is a particularly pressing issue for life science and human and social fields, and we are systematically conducting human resource development by incorporating on-the-job training (OJT) while promoting the Transdisciplinary Research Integration Project.
In 2013, we also started a program to provide young university researchers the research environment to join the research of data-centric research commons.
NB: Researchers may utilize the Researcher Exchange Promotion Program and the Organization’s Special Data Sharing Researcher Program.
