Frameworks-Imaging-PHD: Empowering data reuse and reproducibility through microscopy-community-defined Persistent Hardware Descriptors

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $3,999,550 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

This project that helps make scientific research more understandable, shareable, and reusable. Scientists use complex instruments - such as multi-million-dollar microscopes - to collect data in fields such as biology, physics, and environmental science. However, key details about how those instruments were set up or used are often missing. That makes it difficult for others to replicate experiments or build upon the results. The project addresses this challenge by creating clear, standardized records of the equipment used in research. These records, known as Persistent Hardware Descriptors (PHDs), are stored permanently and can be directly linked to scientific data and publications. This makes it easier for others to trust, verify, and reuse that data. By collaborating with equipment manufacturers and developing user-friendly tools for researchers, Imaging-PHD enables scientists to maintain more accurate records with minimal effort. It also offers training and resources so people can learn how to manage and share their data more effectively. Imaging-PHD helps students, early-career researchers, and institutions of all sizes take part in cutting-edge research without needing to repeat expensive experiments. By making scientific tools and data more accessible and trustworthy, the project helps drive innovation, education, and progress. The Imaging-PHD project is building a scalable cyberinfrastructure framework to capture, store, and disseminate persistent and machine-action

Key facts

NSF award ID
2513921
Awardee
University of Massachusetts Medical School (MA)
SAM.gov UEI
MQE2JHHJW9Q8
PI
Caterina Strambio De Castillia
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
INTERDISCIPLINARY PROPOSALS, NEES RESEARCH, Software Institutes
Estimated total
$3,999,550
Funds obligated
$3,999,550
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
08/15/2025 → 07/31/2029