An electronic lab notebook (ELN) is a digital version of a traditional hard-copy lab notebook that allows for increased functionality between researchers and their data by providing a consistent platform to manage research data through its life cycle.

ELNs offer several advantages to their hard-copy counterparts:
● curation and preservation of data
● collaborative management
● version-control
● file format support
● keyword searches integrated
● digital object identifier (DOI) for publishing
● encrypted and redundant storage
● geographic access controls.

University of Pittsburgh researchers within all disciplines will soon be able to register for an ELN account through Labarchives, an ELN provider contracted by the University. Contact Pitt IT for details.

Also, contact the Digital Scholarship and Publishing team to ask a question, set up a consultation, or learn more about the library's research data support services.