Node 3: Data analysis and instrumentation

The science and technology to be explored by XENQ embraces the exciting future promised by cutting edge research. Underpinning the experimental aspects of this research, however, is a crucial but somewhat less glamorous activity: the collection and analysis of data. While the outcomes of the research in the XENQ Network are expected to stir excitement throughout the community, the advances that will drive these developments depend on further refinement of apparatus and instrumentation, and increasing sophistication in the collection, analysis and interpretation of the typically large volumes of data generated by experiments.

In recognition of these core research activities, XENQ will maintain a node that is dedicated to the free exchange of information regarding advances in instrumentation, data collection and analysis, and to conducting training courses in these disciplines, to form a significant component of the Network funding budget. These courses will typically be designed for the needs of young researchers who are beginning a research project or who require specialized training that is unavailable at their host institution, or more senior personnel seeking training from recognized experts to enable them to expand their research activities into new areas as quickly as possible.

The node will also coordinate the design, maintenance, and exchange of the specialized software that forms an integral part of most modern experimental approaches. It is intended that this function of the node will reduce replication of software while enhancing its robustness, generality, and reliability, becoming an accessible asset for the whole community.

In particular, this node will be responsible for the implementation of website databases. For example, the Convenor has developed one of NIST’s (USA) two major attenuation databases and one of the two major US form factor databases. These tools are crucial and invaluable for all users, applied and fundamental, and further developments will be of major benefit to Australia and the international community. It is envisaged that there may be great demand for databases on