Policies

Using the cluster means agreeing to Caltech’s institutional policies on acceptable use, data handling, and export control. This page summarizes the essentials; the official Caltech documents are the binding versions and govern in case of any conflict.

Acceptable use

The cluster is a shared research resource funded by Caltech and the Resnick Sustainability Institute, for Caltech-affiliated research, teaching, and sponsored collaborations. It is not for commercial work, production services, or anything that violates the Caltech Acceptable Use Policy. Every user needs their own account — sharing credentials is not permitted.

Data handling

If your research involves regulated or restricted data — HIPAA / protected health information, FERPA records, payment-card (PCI) data, controlled unclassified information (CUI), or export-controlled material — check with the Caltech Office of Research Compliance before using the cluster. As a shared environment, it may not be an appropriate home for these data classes without a separately arranged agreement.

Warning

There is no managed backup or disaster recovery for cluster storage. Replicate critical data elsewhere — see Backups.

Export control

By accepting an account you agree the cluster will not be used for foreign military end-use, weapons development, or computing destined for U.S. Country Group D:5 countries. The full terms are in the End-User Agreement. For ITAR- or EAR-controlled work, contact the Office of Research Compliance before computing on the cluster.

Security

Questions