PASTA-ELN
Attributes
DescriptionPASTA-ELN is a free and open-source desktop software that facilitates transparent and consistent research data management in experimental science.
Keeping the raw scientific data at its source, e.g., on the hard disk of the researcher or the respective microscope, is one of the core principles of PASTA-ELN. The local storage of the data ensures its accessibility with conventional analysis software while maintaining its confidentiality and security. At the same time, an adaptive CouchDB document database is used to store metadata, including the hierarchical structure of the project.
PASTA-ELN extractor scripts process the raw measurement files while scanning the working directory. As a result, thumbnails, data, and metadata are automatically captured and integrated into the project. Scientists can create new or modify existing extractor scripts to tailor the data and metadata extraction to their needs.
In addition, PASTA-ELN facilitates seamless data exchange through a compatible (.eln) file format that conforms to the RO-Crate standard. This feature promotes effective archiving and migration of data and metadata across platforms, supporting collaboration and data interoperability.
ProviderForschungszentrum Jülich, Institute Structure and Function of Materials (IEK-2)
Information on ProviderThe ELN is developed by Dr. Steffen Brinckmann at the Institute Structure and Function of Materials (IEK-2), Forschungszentrum Jülich.
Activity Statusactive
Information on ActiveRegular releases (most recent version 3.2.1), active development and updates.
Last checked on15.12.2025
Provider's data safety and data security strategiesLocal storage first approach, in default examples also entering remote data possible. Users can choose whether personal data is exported or not. Users can create backups manually.
Reference usersSteffen Brinckmann (Forschungszentrum Jülich, IEK-2, e-mail: s.brinckmann@fz-juelich.de)
ReviewsSince software is in early stage of development, no reviews have been collected yet.
Exit strategyData migration is possible with a common eln (zip-like) archive format. Since the software is free and open-source, older versions remain available even after official discontinuation.
Communityhttps://github.com/PASTA-ELN/pasta-eln
Known usersAcademic groups at IEK-2, Forschungszentrum Jülich
General
LicenseOpen Source, MIT license (https://github.com/PASTA-ELN/pasta-eln?tab=License-1-ov-file#readme)
PricingFree
Versions
Location of providerGermany
Usability
Customizable user interfaceCustomizable user interface, Partially customizable user interface (appearance can be modified)
LanguagesEnglish
SupportSupport by provider, Online documentation, User training (online, on site), Users can email provider for support, create issues on the Github page
Usage statisticsNo usage statistics
Offline functionalitiesOffline data capture, Offline data and metadata capture and annotation, full functionality, software is a desktop application (server synchronization possible when online).
Core functions (Daily work)
Data inputPlain text editor, Rich text editor, Offline metadata forms, automatic data and metadata extraction
Data import (formats)Image formats, Table formats, Document formats, Scientific formats, jpg, png, csv, json, txt, md, org, xlsx, py, ipynb, eln
Data import (method)Drag & Drop / File Chooser, Scanning the working directory on local hard drive
Data exportFormats suitable for long term archiving, Complete content in document format, eln file export (archive with metadata in JSON-LD and linked datafiles, based on the RO-Crate standard), csv export.
TemplatesDefine own templates
Search functionsConditional search, Categorization by data type, Filtering
CollaborationServer synchronization of metadata between users
Compliance with legal requirements
Preservation of evidenceTimestamping, Versioning
ComplianceGood Laboratory Practice (GLP), Good Research Practice (GRP)
Extended functions (Daily work)
Laboratory management functions
Integrations and extensionsDataverse
AutomationData analysis, Extractors allow automatized data analysis, data and metadata extraction
Device connectionWithout device connection
Project management tools
WorkflowsWithout workflows
Integration in RDM and IT environment
Application programming interfacesPython library
Controlled vocabularyNot controlled
Data accessLocal client
Responsive Design, Desktop software
Data storage locationLocal
Authentication methods
User account security measures
Usage optionOn-premises
Server operating system
Version History
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