Cloud Solution

Excelra Cloud Solution is a cloud computing platform designed for teams that need to create, share, and manage cloud resources for both compute and storage. It is aimed at life sciences and research teams, as well as their managers and administrators, who require scalable infrastructure, workflow automation, and secure data handling without the overhead of managing cloud environments directly.

The platform provides access to cloud computing instances, batch processing, job automation, and administrative controls through a user-friendly interface. It supports single sign-on via Azure AD and includes a separate S3 application for external data sharing with partners, contractors, and clients.

Project Nodes and Data Storage

• Teams can create scalable cloud computing instances called project nodes, which can be adjusted to match the requirements of individual projects.
• Users can create dedicated data storage buckets to keep data accessible and organised.
• Nodes and storage buckets can be shared across team members to support collaboration.
• When launching project nodes, users can select from a range of cloud compute instance types and view expected costs before provisioning.
• Resources are protected by virtual private networks and security protocols to prevent unauthorised access.

Batch Processing

• The batch processing feature supports handling of large datasets and resource-intensive operations, including Nextflow pipelines.
• Users can manage batch computing environments and queues through a dedicated overview page.
• The feature is designed to automate complex tasks and maximise utilisation of computational resources, reducing the need for manual intervention.

Job Automation

• The Jobs feature allows users to automate recurring workloads without setting up project nodes each time.
• Users specify code, commands, data storage locations, and Docker images to define a job.
• Job configurations can be saved as presets for faster setup on future projects, supporting consistent and repeatable results.
• Jobs can be created from a preset or by manually specifying computational resources, inputs, outputs, and the command to be executed.

Administration Account

• A dedicated administration account provides an overview of cloud usage, instance statuses, and access controls across the organisation.
• Administrators can filter views by user or project and monitor costs in real time.
• The admin account supports management of user permissions, role assignment, and oversight of third-party accounts.
• Administrators can control the state of all cloud instances and manage access for external collaborators.
• Standard users log in via Azure AD, while administrators use a separate account for administrative access.

S3 Application

• A separate S3 application is available for data sharing with external partners, contractors, and clients.
• Third-party users can securely upload and download data directly through a browser interface.
• All shared buckets are accessible through the S3 app, while the organisation retains full control over its data.

Key Features

• Single sign-on using Office 365 credentials via Azure AD.
• User-friendly interface with straightforward navigation.
• Separate user and administrator accounts for access control.
• Admin account with a transparent overview of customer accounts, users, costs, and other parameters.
• S3 app extension for secure external data sharing.
• Cost tracking at the instance and project level.
• Security via SSH and VPN.
• Global support from Excelra.

Excelra Cloud Solution is accessible as a web-based platform with single sign-on support through Azure AD. Excelra operates offices across the United States, United Kingdom, Belgium, Netherlands, and India, and provides global support for the platform.