Introduction

What is Explorer?

Explorer is a federated data hub that enables researchers to discover, access, and analyze distributed biomedical datasets through a unified interface.

How it Works

Explorer provides streamlined access to datasets through a standards-compliant interface. You can search across multiple data networks while maintaining compliance with Global Alliance for Genomics & Health (GA4GH) standards. The platform supports both public datasets and controlled access data through secure authentication.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Search: Search for public and private datasets (Collections) by name, description, and tags

• Unified Interface: Access a global federated network of datasets through a single, standardized interface

• Interactive Data Exploration: Navigate data through faceted search UI and SQL-based API

• Secure Authentication: Login with Passport to access controlled data with a single identity

• Standards Compliance: Full compatibility with open GA4GH standards

• Integrated Analysis Tools: Connect with Workbench for bioinformatics processing, Jupyter Notebooks for interactive visualizations, TensorFlow for machine learning, and integrate.ai for federated learning

• Customizable Portal: Create a branded portal with a custom URL, hero image, mission statement, and color scheme

• Cross-Organization Networking: Create internal portals or build networks across organizations while maintaining data control through Publisher

Available Explorer Networks from DNAstack

Explorer powers several specialized research networks, including:

• Viral AI - For viral genomics research

• Neuroscience AI - For neuroscience data exploration

• Oncology AI - For cancer research datasets

• Rare Disease AI - For rare disease research

• Additional specialized networks available

Getting Started with Explorer

To begin exploring datasets:

1. Create a Passport account or sign in with your existing credentials

2. Browse available public datasets immediately

3. Request access to controlled datasets as needed

All Explorer networks use Passport authentication, allowing you to access multiple data resources with a single secure identity.