A virtual research environment is a platform which allows multiple researchers in different locations to work together in real time without restrictions. In terms of content, virtual research environments potentially support the entire research process – from the collection, discussion and further processing of data right through to the publication of results. From a technological perspective, virtual environments are based primarily on software services and communication networks. Virtual research environments are essential components of state-of-the-art research infrastructures.

Notes:

1. Virtual research environments allow access to physical research resources. These may include data, analysis and processing tools, and scientific instrumentation and services.
2. A virtual research environment needs not necessarily be operated by multiple collaborating institutions; instead, it can also be operated by a single facility. Using a virtual research environment facilitates cooperation.
3. The virtual research environment is not a workaround for situations in which researchers are not at their desks. This would simply be a case of accessing a research environment remotely. Media for communication between researchers (such as, for example, Wikis or videoconferencing) are not, in themselves, considered virtual research environments.
4. As a virtual research environment can be used from multiple locations, it is generally possible for multiple researchers to use it at the same time. An exception to this rule is the mutually exclusive use of individual research resources, such as telescopes in astronomy

February 2011