Triangle Research Data Center (TRDC) within UNC's Carolina Population Center: Home
Michele Hayslett
Data Management
Numeric Data
Census Data
Locating Data
If you would like to request we acquire data, please carefully read the guidelines at http://library.unc.edu/data/purchase/.
Library Data Services
Library Data Services caters to researchers interested in working with data, mapping, texts, visualization, and technology. Many of these services are available online. Davis Library Data Services, located on the second floor of Davis Library, offers:
- A computing lab with specialized software for GIS and data visualization & analysis.
- Walk-in assistance provided by knowledgeable student consultants during set hours.
- Consultations with specialists for more in-depth inquiries (by appointment).
- Spaces for collaboration and presentation, complete with white boards and external displays.
- Technology short courses and programs that promote digital scholarship.
What It Is
The TRDC is part of a network of Federal Statistical Research Data Centers across the country that provide secure access to restricted-use Federal microdata for approved research projects. Begun by the Census Bureau, a Census employee continues to facilitate access at each site although a variety of statistical agencies now supply datasets through this network.
Here's an introductory video from the Census Bureau.
The TRDC has long been supported by Triangle institutions including UNC, Duke, and RTI International. Duke maintains another site of the TRDC on its west campus.
What Data Are Available?
See the list of available data. These data sets are not otherwise publicly available. Application procedures vary depending on the sponsoring agency.
Agencies contributing data include:
- the Census Bureau
- the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
- the Bureau of Economic Analysis
- the Bureau of Labor Statistics
- the National Center for Health Statistics, and
- the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
Hosting data in the RDCs requires a Memorandum of Understanding between the Census Bureau (which runs the centers) and any other agency so this list changes. Check the site linked above frequently.
Where Can I Get More Information?
See the TRDC website for information on
- Research at the TRDC (including how to get started and proposal guidelines)
- Research examples of past projects
- News and events
- More information about RDCs generally, and
- How to contact the TRDC staff.