Virtual Reference Environments: a simple way to make research reproducible.

Area of Science:

• Computational Biology
• Bioinformatics
• Scientific Computing

Background:

• Increasing complexity in bioinformatics and computational biology methodologies necessitates robust reproducibility.
• Current reproducible research practices are advancing, but further simplification is possible.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for the creation of minimal virtual reference environments as a standard publication component.
• To propose a practical step for enhancing research reproducibility using available technologies.

Main Methods:

• Implementing all necessary computational tools within a self-contained virtual environment.
• Demonstrating the creation and utility of such an environment with a practical example.

Main Results:

• Virtual environments provide a standardized and accessible method for reproducing research results.
• The proposed approach addresses potential challenges and offers a feasible solution.

Conclusions:

• Minimal virtual reference environments are a crucial next step for ensuring research reproducibility.
• This method capitalizes on advancements in internet infrastructure and software licensing.