Scientific Information Services

The Scientific Information Services (SIS) group provides comprehensive support to the Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center in the management and dissemination of scientific information collected, acquired, or produced by Center programs. SIS manages many kinds of information including fisheries data; scientific reports, manuscripts, and other printed material; photographic images and other graphical products; reference books and journals; and more.

Data Management

Catch data and other information submitted to NMFS by fishing vessel captains or collected by Center research and monitoring programs are entered into a secure computer system at the Center, carefully examined to assure they are valid and accurate, and archived. Primary fishery data collections are managed in a relational database where they are readily accessible to authorized Center scientists for fishery analysis and stock assessment studies. Stringent measures are applied to protect the confidentiality of commercial fisheries data in accordance with the Magnuson-Stevens Act and other applicable laws.

Editorial Services

Reports, manuscripts, and other documents written by PIFSC staff and affiliated JIMAR scientists are edited and proofed by SIS staff, then reviewed and approved by the Science Director (or delegated authority) prior to their public dissemination by the Center or submission to peer-reviewed journals or other external publishers. Documents published by the Center are made readily available to the public. More on Publications ...

Graphics Services

Photographs, scanned images, line art, and other graphical materials are acquired or produced in-house, edited, and cataloged for use in Center publications and presentations. Graphical design and layout services are provided to Center and affiliated JIMAR staff for posters, brochures, and other presentation and educational materials.

Library

A comprehensive reference library for use by Center scientists, affiliated JIMAR staff, and the public is maintained with up-to-date collections of scientific journals, technical books, and other documents. Extensive capabilities are provided for online bibliographic searches, linkage to other archives, inter-library loans, and more. Visit the Library ...

Web Services

SIS is responsible for a variety of Web services within the PIFSC. The most important service is the dissemination of the Center's reports and scientific publications, public data products, research news, and other information over the Internet. These functions are handled within SIS by the PIFSC Webmaster, who oversees development of the Center's Web site and related databases and Web tools, assisted by the Center's Web Team. SIS also manages the delivery of corporate news and information within the Center via the PIFSC Intranet, which is developed and maintained by the Center's Librarian.