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Protected Network for Research (PNR) User Guide

The PNR is Duke's secure enclave for sensitive and regulated research data — analytical tools, project storage, and per-user VMs in a controlled environment. This user guide is the starting point for getting access, setting up your project, and using PNR services day-to-day.

PNR HowTos Video

Use the Protected Network for Research (PNR) for integrated analytical tools and storage for sensitive and regulated data research. Primarily intended for provost area researchers.

Duke Health PHI

Duke Health PHI is not allowed in the Duke Protected Network for Research.

What the PNR Offers

  • Technical assistance

    Technical assistance when you need it, self-service when you don't. PNR projects are managed through Research Toolkits and Research Computing is available for support.

  • Facilitation

    Facilitation services through OR&I to manage the complexities associated with regulated data.

  • No-cost tier

    No-cost secure and flexible storage and analytical tools for most projects. Additional computation and storage resources are available for a fee at standard Research Computing rates.

Submitting to the campus IRB?

If you're submitting to the campus IRB for sensitive human subject data, develop your Data Protection Plan with the PNR in mind.

The PNR is designed to comply with Duke IT Security Policies.

How Do I Get It?

For sensitive data projects:

  • Setup occurs once protocol is approved (IRB).
  • For regulated data, setup follows DUA execution with OR&I.

Request a Regulated Data Research Project

New to the PNR?

  1. About the PNR
  2. Review project roles and assign initial members to the correct roles
  3. If available, request a transfer of your data from Box to the PNR

How to Use PNR Services for Project Members

Need Help?

  • For sensitive, restricted, or regulated data questions, contact security@duke.edu
  • For PNR setup, workflow, or technical assistance, contact rescomputing@duke.edu
  • For DUA execution and regulated data project intake, contact OR&I