The Data Analytics Center (DAC) will act as a central clearing house for researchers across the University grounds seeking assistance with the management or analysis of large-scale datasets. DAC will recruit experts with knowledge of in demand data analytics approaches such as Neural Network based Machine learning, as well as specific approaches for key domain areas. Additionally, DAC will recruit staff focused on negotiating access to external repositories of data and enabling integration with UVA data to form local repositories. To enable these goals DAC will build out a helpdesk to provide Tier 1 support (basic support and triage). To avoid duplicating efforts across grounds, DAC will leverage a mixture of in-house expertise from across Research Computing in key areas while connecting with existing areas of expertise in other units.  An “Analytics Resource Awards” program will support Tier 3 collaborations with DAC staff and with experts in other units.

Over the past two years, the Data Analytics Center has grown significantly, reinforcing its role as a center for supporting research involving the management and analysis of large data sets. The DAC has achieved this growth by adding new staff, strengthening its connections across the University’s research community, and performing consultations and collaborations
The Data Analytics Center has placed a strong emphasis on expanding its team, bringing in new expertise from a range of disciplines. The team’s expertise has allowed the Center not only to deepen its technical capabilities, but also to broaden the ways in which it supports the University’s commitment to collaborative research.

A significant part of this support comes from the Center’s active role in sharing knowledge and building community. Through workshops, outreach events, and one-on-one consultations, the DAC has worked to make analysis of large data sets accessible across Grounds. Its engagement is evident from its collaborative projects and numerous grant contributions, each helping to advance research through data-driven insights.

The Center also has launched notable new initiatives, such as the Large Analytics Resource Award. This effort invests in long-lasting infrastructure, which will foster new partnerships across multiple departments. Additional initiatives include the DHC-DAC Fellowship in partnership with the Digital Humanities Center and the Data Storage Finder web application developed with the EPASD (Enabling Public Access to Scholarship and Data) Working Group. These initiatives exemplify the DAC’s efforts in fostering interdisciplinary connections within the University.

With a strengthened team, active community engagement, and an extensive portfolio of computational expertise, the Data Analytics Center continues to enhance its impact and reach. The DAC remains dedicated to supporting excellence in research by providing comprehensive assistance to researchers as they pursue their goals. The DAC is committed to driving innovation and seeks to advance computational analysis within the University.