DOE announces $29M for energy, climate and security-driving data analysis tools

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recently announced $29 million for labs, universities, industry, and nonprofit research institutions to spur new data analysis tools capable of processing tons of data to provide new research insights for American energy.

Such tools can allow scientists and researchers to outpace the volume of data capable under traditional analysis methods. They allow for solutions to more complex problems, giving experts a raw, foundational edge going into projects. The two big focuses for DOE, in this regard, will be in creating tools capable of identifying patterns otherwise impossible for humans to detect and simplifying large datasets for easier understanding.

“As research tools like computers or microscopes have gotten more powerful, the amount of data they can gather has gotten overwhelming—and scientists need new capabilities to make sense of it all,” Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm said. “Advanced analysis methods will help them unlock the full potential behind all this data so that we can solve even our most complex challenges.”

All funding will be competitively awarded, based on peer review. Of the $29 million at stake, up to $21 million will go toward machine learning for pattern identification. The remaining $8 million will support the development of algorithms based on random sampling, allowing for the simplification of extensive datasets for easier analysis. In terms of pattern recognition, the goal is to create something that will allow researchers to identify patterns hundreds to thousands of times faster than traditional methods.