Electronic Laboratory Notebook (ELN)
Definition
An Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN) is a software tool that digitally replicates paper lab notebooks traditionally used in the sciences to record experimental results. It allows scientists to access, search, and share results from an experiment. In an ELN, researchers can document protocols, lab activity, observations, notes, and other data in an electronic format and from a variety of devices. ELNs offer several advantages over traditional paper notebooks and facilitate good research data management practices, providing for data security, auditing, and collaboration.
Examples
- A bench science research lab might use an ELN (such as Benchling, LabArchives, and Scispot) for project documentation, sample management, process management, and reporting.
- In addition to general ELNs, some are designed and built for specific disciplines, such as BrainSTEM for neuroscience, and Signals for chemistry.