Rubaida Easmin

In the era of data-intensive science, managing and verifying research processes that include raw data, analysis scripts, workflows, and documentation, remains a major challenge, particularly in complex fields like neuroimaging were multiple processing and analyses stages can take place. Fragmented tools, inconsistent documentation, and poor platform integration continue to undermine reproducibility. While current Electronic Lab Notebooks (ELNs) aid organization, they often lack cross-platform interoperability, authorship certification, and immutable auditability. To address these gaps, this study proposes a novel ELN framework IntegriLAB, that consolidates traditional data, document and code repositories into a centralized, web-based system for end-to-end project tracking. As a proof of concept, our case study integrates DataLad, Overleaf and GitHub. It allows real-time monitoring across the research cycle while preserving familiar workflows. A key innovation is the use of LabTrace built on green blockchain technology to certify research activities through cryptographically signed, immutable records, ensuring data integrity and verifiable authorship with minimal environmental impact. By unifying project management, secure data handling, and blockchain-based verification, the proposed ELN advances reproducibility, fosters trust, and strengthens collaborative research practices.

In data-intensive fields like neuroimaging, managing and verifying complex research workflows, ranging from raw data to scripts and documentation, remains a significant challenge. Fragmented tools, inconsistent records, and limited platform integration continue to undermine reproducibility. While current Electronic Lab Notebooks (ELNs) support organization, they often lack interoperability, authorship verification, and secure audit trails. To address these gaps, this study presents IntegriLAB, a novel ELN framework that unifies data, documents, and code within a centralized, web-based platform for comprehensive project tracking. As a proof of concept, we integrate DataLad, Overleaf, and GitHub to enable seamless, real-time monitoring without disrupting familiar workflows. A key innovation is the use of Algorand, a green blockchain protocol, to generate cryptographically signed, immutable records certifying research activities and authorship. By combining robust project management with blockchain-based verification, IntegriLAB enhances reproducibility, fosters trust, and strengthens collaborative research practices.