Big Data Limitations: The Sky is the Limit for Overcoming Big Data Barriers
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: As a means to embed in interdisciplinary research, the Biosciences Librarian found an
opportunity to be involved in a research initiative called a Pop-Up Institute (PUI), Understanding Individual
Population Variation in Biology, Medicine, and Society. This was a one-month interdisciplinary research
team that would work towards 1) identify the most promising questions about individual and population
variation, 2) establish a unique and comprehensive research plan and 3) develop solutions to shared
problems that limit progress (e.g. Big Data analysis and data sharing).
METHODS: Informal notes and a formal survey were taken to identify the benefits, needs, and services of a
librarian being embedded in interdisciplinary research.
RESULTS: Feedback and perspectives from the PUI research participants along with survey response
showed that the involvement of the library was “extremely useful”• (85%). Additionally, 78% of survey
respondents are “extremely likely”• to contact the library or librarian for future research, teaching, or
projects.
CONCLUSION: The Biosciences Librarian successfully embedded and is continuing to provide services that
will impact researchers and clinicians who are facing big data challenges. The PUI revealed five needs for our campus to overcome big data limitations: 1) identify a person to connect and establish research
partnerships across the institution, 2) document and curate the resources and infrastructure already in
place, 3) identify data sources on and off our campus that will enhance data modeling, 4) identify systematic
data collection and analysis methods across departments, and 5) identify unique funding opportunities.
Department
Description
Presentation given at the South Central Chapter of the Medical Library Association Annual Meeting held October 2017 in Albuquerque, NM.
Presentation won the Papers-1st place Elizabeth K. Eaton Research Award given by the South Central Chapter of the Medical Library Association (SCCMLA) and the South Central Academic Medical Libraries (SCAMeL).
Subject
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