University of Pennsylvania Information Systems & Computing

University of Pennsylvania Information Systems & Computing
Name	University of Pennsylvania Information Systems & Computing
Established	1996
Parent	University of Pennsylvania
Key people	John L. Jackson Jr., Firooz Aflatouni
Location	Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Website	https://www.isc.upenn.edu/

University of Pennsylvania Information Systems & Computing. It is the central information technology organization for the University of Pennsylvania, providing foundational technology services and strategic support for the institution's academic, research, and administrative missions. Established in the mid-1990s, it consolidates diverse computing functions under a unified leadership to enhance efficiency and innovation. The unit operates critical infrastructure, supports advanced research computing, and ensures the security and integrity of the university's digital environment.

History

The division was formally established in 1996 under the leadership of then-Provost Michael Aiken, consolidating previously decentralized computing and telecommunications departments. This reorganization aimed to create a more cohesive and strategic approach to information technology across the University of Pennsylvania, including its medical center and Wharton School. Key early initiatives included the deployment of a unified campus network and the PennNet backbone, which connected the university to the burgeoning Internet2 consortium. Throughout the late 1990s and 2000s, it played a pivotal role in major university projects like the implementation of the Banner enterprise resource planning system and the expansion of wireless network coverage across campus.

Organizational Structure

The organization reports to the Provost and the Executive Vice President and is led by a Vice President for Information Systems and Computing. It is composed of several major service groups, including Technology Services, Application Support, and Security. These groups collaborate closely with other central units like Penn Libraries and school-based IT departments, such as those within the School of Engineering and Applied Science. The structure is designed to support a federated model, ensuring alignment with the distinct needs of entities like the Perelman School of Medicine and the Annenberg School for Communication.

Academic Programs

While primarily a service organization, it directly supports the university's academic mission through specialized units. The Weingarten Learning Resources Center and Online Learning Initiative rely on its technological infrastructure for delivering digital education. It provides critical resources for data science and computational science curricula across schools, including the College of Arts and Sciences. Furthermore, it partners with academic departments to offer workshops and training in areas like high-performance computing and research data management, often in conjunction with the Price Lab for Digital Humanities.

Research and Initiatives

The division operates and supports several high-profile research computing platforms, including the Pennsylvania Research Computing ecosystem and the HPC clusters used by researchers in fields from genomics to astrophysics. It leads major cybersecurity initiatives through its Security Operations Center and participates in national efforts like the Research and Education Networking infrastructure. Other key initiatives include the PennO365 cloud collaboration suite, digital accessibility projects, and sustainable IT programs aligned with the university's climate goals.

Notable Faculty and Alumni

Leadership has included notable figures such as former Vice President Robin Beck and current Vice President Firooz Aflatouni, a professor in the School of Engineering and Applied Science. The organization's work supports the research of distinguished faculty across the university, including Nobel laureates like Carolyn R. Bertozzi and Harvey J. Alter. While not a degree-granting body, its professional staff and collaborators include alumni of programs at MIT, Stanford University, and Carnegie Mellon University who have gone on to leadership roles in industry and academia.

Facilities and Resources

Primary operational facilities include the 3401 Walnut Street data center, which houses core server infrastructure and networking equipment. The division manages the extensive PennNet wired and wireless network, one of the largest private networks in Philadelphia. It provides the PennKey authentication system, the Canvas learning management system, and the Workday platform for human resources. Additional resources include specialized labs for assistive technology, the Penn Video Network, and secure computing environments for sensitive research governed by regulations like HIPAA and FISMA.

Category:University of Pennsylvania Category:Information technology organizations