What This Guide Is — and Is Not
This guide explains how Kean IT currently supports faculty research computing and how to engage with IT when research work is affected by security controls, software restrictions, or infrastructure constraints. This guide is not a final solution to all research computing challenges.
It does not replace:
- Faculty governance processes
- Broader research infrastructure planning
- Requests for external or independent review
Its purpose is to:
- Clarify what IT support pathways exist today
- Set expectations for what a research IT consultation can accomplish
- Identify when issues require follow-up, escalation, or broader review beyond a single appointment
What Happens When You Contact Research IT
When you schedule a research IT consultation, the goal is to provide clarity and forward progress — not to over-promise immediate resolution.
A consultation is intended to:
- Identify the specific technical issue affecting your research
- Determine whether the issue can be resolved immediately, requires follow-up work, or falls outside current IT capabilities
- Clearly communicate next steps when on-the-spot resolution is not possible
Some issues can be addressed during a single session. Others may require:
- Additional technical review
- Coordination with Security or Infrastructure teams
- Policy review or leadership escalation
- External consultation or future investment
If an issue cannot be resolved during the consultation, you will be told explicitly why and what happens next.
Research Computing Support Models (Summary)
Rather than focusing on technical terminology, the table below summarizes the support approaches currently available.
Research Scenario |
Typical Approach |
What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
General research software on a Kean-managed laptop |
Local configuration and application approval |
Immediate support where feasible |
Funded or data-restricted research |
Isolated research environment scoped to the project |
Configuration based on data and sponsor requirements |
Advanced computing or lab/instrument workflows |
Specialized or exception environment |
Design review and additional lead time |
During your consultation, IT will help determine which model best fits your project.
What This Process Does Not Solve Alone
Some research challenges extend beyond individual systems or appointments.
Examples include:
- Highly customized development environments
- Scenarios requiring rapid, iterative experimentation outside standard institutional controls
These issues are documented and reviewed but may require solutions involving multiple stakeholders, additional resources, or external review.
Collaboration, Oversight, and Ongoing Review
Kean IT recognizes the need for stronger, ongoing collaboration with faculty regarding research
infrastructure decisions that affect scholarly work.
This guide reflects current operational support, not a completed governance model.
Faculty feedback and consultation outcomes will be used to:
- Identify recurring barriers
- Inform policy refinement
- Support broader discussions led by the Provost’s Office and ORSP regarding research computing strategy, governance, and potential external review
How to Get Help
Research Computing Coordinator
Joe Pallante
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM
Appointments
Schedule a research consultation via Microsoft Bookings or contact the IT Help Desk at (908)
737-6000.
This guide is a living document and will evolve as research needs, infrastructure, and
governance processes continue to develop.