IT News for Faculty & Staff (July 2024)
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6 Essential IT Tools for Researchers
Advances in research computing have positioned Pitt at the forefront of research, contributing to the University ranking third nationally in NIH funding in FY23. Researchers utilize robust technology to collect, store, and analyze data; document and manage lab processes; and work with collaborators. Here are six tools Pitt researchers can start using today.
- Online Survey System (Qualtrics): Ideal for creating and distributing complex surveys, collecting data, and compiling and visualizing results.
- Electronic Research Notebooks (LabArchives): Organize, document, and manage all aspects of lab activity, including equipment and space reservations and managing lab inventory and ordering.
- Enterprise Cloud Computing (ECC): Access reliable and secure virtual computing and storage through Microsoft Azure.
- Enterprise Data Transfer Service (Globus): Move and share data between devices, servers, institutions, and the cloud.
- Scientific Image and Illustration (BioRender): Create and edit scientific diagrams and illustrations with no artistic skills needed.
- Center for Research Computing (CRC) and Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center (PSC): Engage in large-scale modeling and simulations, as well as high-throughput computing.
Pitt IT supports the work of researchers, so they can focus on doing what they do best: making the University of Pittsburgh one of the top research institutions in the world!
Connecting Communities to Vaccines and Preventive Care
What began as a response to the pandemic has evolved into a holistic health care destination, thanks to dedicated health professionals and the seamless integration of technology. Learn more about the Pitt Vaccine Hub's journey of innovation and service.
Planning Scam-Free Vacations
Looking forward to relaxing at a sandy beach or exploring a new city this summer? Travel scams can make summer more stressful than relaxing and cost you big bucks. Don't get grounded. Here are some tips on how to avoid the most common travel scams.
Enhanced Email Security
In response to increasing phishing attacks and email spoofing, Pitt IT will activate DMARC Email Validation effective July 1. DMARC prevents attackers from using a fake 'from' address to impersonate someone else. Messages that fail validation will be quarantined in your Spam and Virus Message Center. Learn how DMARC protects you.
Training for Instructional Technology
The University Center for Teaching and Learning offers a wide variety of live and on-demand workshops to help you learn about classroom audio-visual equipment and instructional technology, including Canvas, Panopto, and more. Check out their website today to brush up on the tech skills you need to teach effectively.
Tech Changes Coming July 1
- New Duo Prompt
You may have noticed a new Duo multifactor authentication prompt when logging in to University services. The updated prompt provides a simpler interface that is more accessible for those with disabilities. Remember: If you receive a Duo (or other MFA system) prompt and aren’t trying to log in, don’t approve the request. - An Auto-Update to New Microsoft Teams
Microsoft is updating the Teams desktop app for Windows and Mac. The new version loads faster, uses less battery and memory, and supports multiple accounts (e.g., Pitt and UPMC). Microsoft will automatically apply the update to remaining users of the classic version, which will no longer function after July 1. - Premium Zoom Licenses for Large Meetings and Webinars
Changes to the University’s licensing agreement with Zoom mean that, beginning July 1, webinars and large capacity meetings require the purchase of premium add-ons available through PantherExpress.
Panther Bytes to Nibble On
Check out these bite-sized blogs about tech topics you should know.
LinkedIn Learning: Bite-Sized Courses with a Big Impact
Every Pitt staff and faculty member has access to the full range of LinkedIn Learning courses at no cost. Here are some of the newest and most popular courses on the platform.
- UX Foundations: Interaction Design
- Finance for Non-Financial Managers
- DevOpps Foundations: Monitoring and Observability
- Nano Tips for Bringing Thought Leadership to Market
- Trust: The Language of Leadership
