IBL Core

Frequently Asked Questions

Applying to work with the IBL Core

Who can apply to work with the IBL Core?

We welcome applications from neuroscience researchers and teams who would benefit from collaboration with the IBL Core. Projects can involve new data collection, existing datasets, or reuse of data from the IBL repository.

What kind of projects are you looking for?

We support projects that align with our expertise in data infrastructure, analysis pipelines, and scalable neuroscience workflows. We are particularly interested in collaborations where our engineering capabilities can enable new or more efficient scientific approaches.

Do you work with human data?

At present, we do not have the infrastructure to support data subject to HIPAA or GDPR regulations.

When is the next round of application?

We will likely open a new round of calls in November 2026. The whole process of selecting new partners takes 5 months.

Collaboration and support

What should I expect if my project is selected?

Projects are developed as close collaborations between your team and the IBL Core. Together, we define scope, responsibilities, timelines, and milestones. The collaboration is guided by transparency, mutual respect, and shared scientific goals.

What level of support will I receive?

Before starting, we agree on the level of support and division of work between teams. Resources are reviewed regularly, and support includes engineering expertise, data processing, and access to shared infrastructure.

Can I use only part of the IBL pipeline?

Yes. You can use selected components depending on your project needs.

Data, tools, and open science

What are the expectations around data sharing?

Partners are expected to release their data publicly, with full technical support from the IBL Core.

How does open science affect my project?

We follow an open science model. Project summaries may be publicly listed, and tools or data products developed with the IBL Core are shared with the community on an agreed timeline.

How are tools and pipelines shared?

All jointly developed tools and pipelines are released openly in accordance with IBL policies, and partners are encouraged to participate in dissemination and community engagement.

Authorship and credit

How is authorship determined?

Authorship follows the IBL publication policy and includes all contributors to a given output. Contributions are described using the CRediT taxonomy to ensure transparency.

Will the IBL be included as an author?

This is to be discussed at the onset of the project, but generally yes, the IBL is included as a group author on outputs arising from the collaboration.

Funding and resources

Is collaboration with the IBL Core free?

Thanks to support from the Simons Foundation, selected projects can receive collaboration and support at no cost. However, capacity is limited.

Can you support new funding applications?

Yes. We are interested in partnering on grant proposals to support new projects and expand the number of collaborations we can take on.

Working with the IBL Core

What makes the IBL Core different?

The IBL Core combines engineering, data, and neuroscience expertise to support collaborative, large-scale research. Originally developed to support the IBL’s Brainwide Map and subsequent projects, the Core now applies this experience to a broader range of collaborations across neuroscience.

What kind of relationship should I expect?

We see collaboration as a partnership. We work closely with research teams to co-develop solutions, share knowledge, and contribute to a broader open scientific community.