Guidance and Training

Introduction

Technical and data management expertise are crucial for scientific researchers, enabling the effective handling, analysis, and interpretation of complex datasets that underpin modern research. Proficiency in areas such as programming, code management, software engineering, and machine learning equips researchers to process and analyze data efficiently, uncover patterns, and generate valuable insights. Additionally, robust data management skills ensure data integrity, organization, and accessibility throughout the research lifecycle. An understanding of the importance of metadata and best practices for data sharing is equally essential. Proper documentation, storage, and sharing practices not only promote reproducibility and collaboration within the scientific community but also facilitate interdisciplinary innovation. Together, these competencies empower researchers to maximize the potential of their data and contribute to solving real-world challenges.

PSDI offers diverse guidance and training formats designed to empower physical scientists in ways that suit their needs. This includes support for managing scientific research data and leveraging PSDI’s cutting-edge technologies and resources. A combination of self-paced learning and in-person training opportunities helps researchers expand their expertise beyond their core disciplines, focusing on transferable skills such as computing, machine learning, and research data management. PSDI also hosts regular events, including webinars and workshops, where researchers and their supporters can acquire new skills, exchange knowledge, and explore advancements in various fields within the physical sciences.

Challenges and Impact

While researchers have access to numerous educational resources covering technical skills, research data management, and data sharing, these materials are often either generic or designed for disciplines with markedly different practices. In many cases, these resources cater to fields with more strictly defined processes, making them less applicable to the unique needs of physical scientists. Recognizing this gap, the Physical Sciences Data Infrastructure (PSDI) delivers guidance and training specifically tailored to the physical sciences community. This encompasses resources that benefit the entire physical sciences community, as well as more specialized materials tailored to specific disciplines, such as those designed for the materials science, biomolecular simulation, and Machine-Learned Interatomic Potentials (MLIPs) communities. PSDI’s targeted resources prioritize enhancing skills that align with the evolving demands of physical sciences research. By emphasizing areas like computational techniques, machine learning, and data sharing, PSDI not only equips researchers with the tools they need today but also prepares them for future advancements. This community-centered approach fosters shared learning, builds professional networks, and promotes the adoption of best practices, ultimately driving progress across the physical sciences.

PSDI Guidance and Training Sources

Our main source of guidance and training is the PSDI Knowledge Base, which is divided into four key sections:

  • Getting started: This section offers a concise introduction to PSDI, including directions on where to find additional information about the resources, guidance materials, and training we provide. There is also an introduction to our communities and the various events and activities that PSDI runs.
  • Guidance: In this section, you’ll find materials on various topics related to research data and PSDI technologies. We aim to expand the range of subjects covered with contributions from the physical sciences community over time.
  • IT Support: This part provides details on how to access help with PSDI and includes a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to address common queries encountered when using PSDI resources.
  • Training: Here, you can easily access PSDI’s training materials, including self-paced online courses, tutorials, our webinar series, and information about upcoming in-person events.

You can explore the PSDI Knowledge Base, at any time on guidance.psdi.ac.uk.

PSDI Training Highlights

Skills 4 Scientists

The Skills4Scientists guidance materials are designed to help researchers develop essential skills in areas such as computing, research data management, and other transferable research skills. These resources include interactive learning materials, practical guidance, and best practices to support researchers in their work. We are also working closely with the community to continuously expand and improve the guidance available through PSDI. Skills4Scientists provides a number of computing and research skills online self-paced courses using the Moodle platform. This courses include a variety of quizzes and tests to let you assess your skills as you learn. See our Skills4Scientists resource catalogue entry on the What We Provide page, for more information about the Skills4Scientists training resources and to access the courses on the Moodle Platform.

PSDI Tutorials

PSDI and our partners provide a variety of tutorials that provide step-by-step instructions to demonstrate how to accomplish certain tasks with technologies utilised by PSDI. See the Tutorials section on the PSDI Knowledge Base, for more information and links to the tutorials.

Webinars

PSDI hosts regular webinars, which are promoted on our Events page. You can participate in these webinars by using the links provided on the event pages. Additionally, recordings of past webinars are available on our  YouTube channel. To see a list of previous webinars and access descriptions and links to watch them, see the Recorded Webinars page in the training section of the Knowledge Base.

In-person training

PSDI organizes both formal in-person training sessions and informal events that offer valuable learning opportunities. These opportunities are promoted through our events pages, newsletter, and social media channels. Examples of past events include:

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