Behind the Data: How Dr. Jeff Shi Powers Large-Scale Neuroscience Research

As team manager and project lead of the Informatics Hub, Jeff Shi, PhD, helps bridge the gap between neuroscience research and the computing infrastructure that makes it possible.

Dr. Shi's journey into informatics began during his doctoral research in ecology and evolutionary biology, where he studied modern bats using complex genomic, skeletal morphology and spatial/environmental datasets. Working with large, multimodal datasets introduced him to supercomputing, high-performance computing, statistical methods, cyberinfrastructure and informatics.

"I get a front-row seat to cutting-edge neuroscience research," Dr. Shi said. "It's inspiring to work alongside colleagues who are so dedicated to advancing science, whether that's seeing paper preprints, exploring interactive data dashboards or helping build the infrastructure behind the research."

What makes the Informatics Hub unique, he said, is its position at the intersection of the Minnesota Supercomputing Institute and MIDB. By collaborating closely with researchers, system administrators, engineers and operations staff, the hub helps research teams address complex data and computing challenges.

One collaboration Dr. Shi is especially excited about is MIDB's Military Child & Family Collaboration Study with the TeleOutreach Hub. The project highlights the Informatics Hub's strength in bringing together advanced computing, cyberinfrastructure and data science to support neuroscience research.

Dr. Shi is also proud of the growth of the research data consultants team, whose expertise spans research compliance, cybersecurity and cyberinfrastructure for large-scale and international collaborations. As he continues learning about emerging brain imaging technologies and machine learning applications, he remains focused on helping researchers tackle increasingly complex data and computing challenges.

Interested in working with Dr. Shi and the Informatics Hub? Submit a process for engagement request form to connect with the team and explore how they can support your research.