Making Smart Science Easier: The CombeChem Experience - eScience from the Laboratory to the Library
Data Data everywhere but nor anytime to think is a possible mantra for the problems of scientific data overload. The CombeChem Project (http://www.combechem.org) takes a holistic approach to the undertaking of scientific laboratory research with a view to improve the quality, accessibility and re-use of chemical information. The project is investigating the use of e-Science technologies based on the idea of Publication @ Source. It is the researchers responsibility to collect the scientific data with the fullest possible context at the start and then ensure that none of the material is lost as the data is processed, refined, analyzed and disseminated. I will illustrate how the e-Science ideas such as the "Semantic Web and Grid, Web 2.0, can be applied to the use of tablet PCs as electronic laboratory notebooks, laboratory blogs, enhancing remote monitoring & control of smart laboratories, and repository based dissemination of chemical data. I will highlight areas where improved transport of information between commonly used software would make a huge difference to the efficiency of scientific data handling and the useful dissemination and discussion of this information.