Secure Data Enclave

Our Secure Data Enclave (SDE) is a high-security, microdata environment designed for the storage and analysis of restricted datasets, including detailed biomarkers and biometric data. As a closed-loop, air-gapped system, the SDE is engineered to meet rigorous institutional and federal security requirements, including HIPAA compliance.

Technical Specifications & Environment

The SDE operates as a secure office within our suite, utilizing a dedicated connection to the SSCERT Data Center. All restricted data is hosted on a centralized server providing:

  • Compute & Storage: 24 CPU cores, 256GB RAM, and 5TB of storage.

  • Software: Mirrors our Bear Force One environment, featuring a full suite of data science tools and statistical packages for interactive debugging and analysis.

  • Security: Physical safeguards on switching equipment and multi-layer management systems for fine-grained auditing and access monitoring.

Available Datasets

The SDE accommodates most data sources and currently houses:

National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health)

Health and Retirement Study (HRS)

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)

Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID)

California Health Benefit Exchange (Covered CA)

Access & Approval Process

Access is primarily reserved for CCPR Faculty and Student Affiliates. Non-affiliates within the UCLA community may request use subject to space availability and CCPR Director approval.

Note: Obtaining restricted data is a rigorous process that often takes several months. Researchers are strongly advised to begin the application process 3 to 6 months prior to their intended analysis date.

Requirement Checklist

To gain access, researchers must secure approval from:

  1. The Data Collection Agency or Primary Data Provider 

  2. UCLA Institutional Review Board (IRB)

How to Apply

CCPR staff can facilitate the data request process and advise on your Data Protection Plan. To initiate a request, please submit the following to the CCPR Directors:

  1. A detailed project description.

  2. The specific type of SDE use required.

  3. A plan for obtaining necessary IRB and Data Collection Agency approvals.

  4. A biosketch of the Principal Investigator (PI).

Upon approval, CCPR will provide a technical description of the SDE for inclusion in your formal data protection applications.

Using the Secure Data Enclave

The SDE is a 24/7 facility designed to support continuous research. To accommodate multiple researchers working simultaneously, the enclave is equipped with several secure terminals. For security and compliance, all physical entries and digital access sessions are strictly logged and audited.

Upon approval, new users will receive an onboarding package including:

  • Secure Entry: An individual Omnilock door code for physical access.

  • System Credentials: A dedicated SDE terminal account.

  • Facility Orientation: A mandatory, brief tutorial covering SDE protocols and safety procedures.

Restricted Data Contracts

Add Health Restricted Data Site | AddHealth Eligibilty Requirement | Application

HRS Restricted Data Site | HRS Restricted Data Requirements& Application Process | Application

PSID | Process and Requirements for Restricted and Sensitive Data

NLS Geocode Application and Information

For more information or assistance, please contact: