Requesting Data Access¶
The CRN Cloud is a controlled-access platform, meaning datasets aren't available for public-download, but any researcher can request access by submitting a Data Use Application (DUA) through the CRN Cloud Explorer Platform.
This page walks through that process.
📚 More resources
- 🎥 Navigating the CRN Cloud Explorer — video walkthrough of applying for access and exploring metadata
- 📄 ASAP CRN Cloud User Manual (PDF) — full official documentation, including detailed sample intended-use statements
Applications are submitted per person, so each researcher must submit their own request. However, it's a single application: once approved, you have access to all ASAP CRN Cloud data, not just the collection you applied from.
Step-by-step¶
- Go to the CRN Cloud Explorer Platform at cloud.parkinsonsroadmap.org. No login is needed just to browse collection descriptions.
- Log in using the Log In button (top right corner), or Apply for Access from a collection's overview tab. This opens Google Sign-In — use a Google-enabled email address (see note below).
- Open any collection tile. This is where the application starts.
- Locate the Access section on the right side of the collection page, and select Apply for Access and log in with a google-enabled email, if not already done in Step 2.
- Complete the form with your name, institution, and intended use (see guidance below), then select Submit.
- Wait for review. This typically takes about 5 business days. You'll receive an email either confirming access or explaining why the application wasn't approved.
Google-enabled email required
You'll need a Google-enabled email address to apply — if your institutional email isn't already Google-enabled, follow the Learn How directions on the Passport Login Screen.
Writing a strong intended use statement¶
Give reviewers enough context to evaluate your request — briefly describe the background and goals of your planned analysis rather than a generic statement like "for research purposes."
Strong statements tend to:
- Name the specific team(s), collection(s), or data types you intend to use
- Describe the analytical approach and how it connects to your broader research question
- Show that you've already reviewed the relevant data structure or reached out to the contributing team
Weaker statements tend to:
- Stay generic ("to study PD," "for my research")
- Not reference any specific collection or data type
- Describe building infrastructure (e.g., a database) rather than a research analysis
See the ASAP CRN Cloud User Manual (PDF) for full worked examples of both.
What's next¶
Once your application is approved (usually within about 5 business days):
- Explore metadata for any collection directly in the CRN Cloud Explorer.
- Analyze the data by continuing to the Verily Workbench Guide.
Need help?¶
- Data access / application questions: cloud@parkinsonsroadmap.org
- CRN Cloud software issues: use the Contact Us link (bottom left of the CRN Cloud site) or email support@dnastack.com
- Verily Workbench issues: workbench-support@verily.com