A hybrid research computing Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) platform, Horizon provides researchers with secure and compliant access to their applications and data sets from any location.
Horizon, which is managed by the VCU School of Medicine but is available to all VCU and VCU Health researchers, supports a wide variety of research computing for investigators across multiple disciplines.
Note: Investigators will be guided to use Horizon by default for identifiable data projects using VCU Health System (VCUHS) datasets effective Oct. 16, 2024.
Features
Among its key benefits, Horizon:
- Provides a virtual desktop preloaded with VCU standard research focused computational software
- Supports a wide variety of research computing for investigators across multiple disciplines
- Provides a highly secured (zero trust security), compliant environment supporting PHI data sources which will enhance collaboration and partnership with VCU Health
- Supports all levels (Category I-III) of VCU data classifications
- Allows flexibility to researchers to securely access Horizon remotely from any VCU/VCUHS managed Windows or Mac computer​
- Facilitates secure collaboration with external partners
How to access Horizon
To gain access to Horizon, all users must first meet with the SOMTech team for a consultation.
Horizon offers two separate environments:
- Black environment: High sensitivity, used for identifiable VCUHS data sets and other highly protected data
- Gold environment: Standard sensitivity, used for large data storage and enhanced computing on nearly all remaining data types
Horizon information sessions
Join us for a Horizon overview/question and answer session:
- Friday, Oct. 18 at noon to 1 p.m.
- Wednesday, Oct. 23 at 9 to 10 a.m.
- Tuesday, Oct. 29 at 3 to 4 p.m.
You may also request support or a one-on-one consultation for Horizon by following these step-by-step instructions.
Frequently asked questions
Answers to some common questions about Horizon can be found below. Additional guidance and step-by-step instructions can also be found in the Horizon knowledge base.
Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) allows an end user to access their own desktop and software applications virtually which are hosted from the Horizon platform instead of using physical hardware such as a laptop or desktop. Horizon end users will be able to access their own “virtual” Windows desktop with standard research applications. VDI will allow researchers the flexibility to securely access Horizon remotely from any location.
This new infrastructure will provide an environment to support a wide variety of research computing for investigators across multiple disciplines, including (but not limited to): bioinformatics, data sciences, population health, public health, cancer research, knowledge workers, research labs, and many others.
Horizon is open to all users and all categories of secure research and supports all levels of VCU data classifications.
Note: Investigators and VCU units will be required to use Horizon by default for clinical research and/or Category 1 data projects for VCU Health System (VCUHS) datasets.
The chargeback model for Horizon is based on usage of virtual machines (VMs) and storage. There will be no chargeback for the basic service tier when the usage is required to secure identifiable research data from VCUHS. For more detailed information on the costs including billing rates, please see the Horizon Cost Structure.
Yes, external collaborators can use Horizon with the following requirements:
- Must be affiliate status
- Must access using Zscaler or Cisco AnyConnect depending on the environment (i.e., high or low security environments)
You can follow these step-by-step instructions to request Horizon support and a consultation with our team to discuss how Horizon may suit your needs.
Researchers can connect to the Horizon VDI environment from any location with an internet connection and a VCU-approved computer.
Horizon can be accessed by following these instructions on the SOM help desk.