A virtual research environment (VRE) is a platform that enables researchers to access and share data, tools, and resources for conducting research. It is essentially a virtual workspace that allows researchers to collaborate and share information, regardLESS of their physical location.
One of the main advantages of using a VRE is that it allows researchers to access a wide range of data and tools that may not be available locally. For example, a researcher working at a small university may not have access to certain datasets or software programs that are available at a larger research institution. By using a VRE, they can access these resources and use them in their research.
Another advantage of VREs is that they enable researchers to collaborate more easily and effectively. By using a VRE, researchers can share data and resources, as well as work on projects together in real time. This can be especially useful for large, interdisciplinary research projects that require collaboration between researchers from different institutions and fields of study.
VREs are typically accessed through a web-based interface, which allows researchers to easily access and manage their research data and resources. They may also include features such as version control and data storage, as well as tools for data analysis and visualization.
Overall, VREs are a valuable resource for researchers, as they provide a convenient and efficient way to access and share data and resources, and to collaborate with other researchers.