How to Upload Files

The DataHub offers two ways to deposit research files into SHARED. Both methods create a linked UChicago Knowledge catalogue record so your data is discoverable and citable. Choose the method that best suits your file size, location, and network environment.

Direct Upload

Up to 30 GB

Drag-and-drop files straight from your local machine. Ideal for small to medium datasets that are already on your computer. Your browser streams the file securely and creates a catalogue record automatically when the transfer completes.

No additional software required
Automatic metadata record on completion
Supports files up to 30 GB

Start a Direct Upload

Globus Transfer

Any size · HPC & servers

Move terabyte-scale datasets directly from HPC clusters, lab servers, or any Globus endpoint. Transfers run in the background and resume automatically if interrupted — no browser tab required.

No file-size limit
Fault-tolerant — auto-resumes on interruption
Works from any Globus endpoint

Start a Globus Transfer

Which method should I use?

Factor	Direct Upload	Globus Transfer
Max file size	30 GB	Unlimited
File location	Local machine	Any Globus endpoint
Browser required	Yes, during upload	Only to start transfer
Fault-tolerant	No	Yes — auto-resumes
Best for	Quick uploads, small files	Large datasets, HPC output

Direct Upload

Up to 30 GB

Best for small to medium files available on your local machine.

Workflow

1
Select or drag-and-drop your file (up to 30 GB) into the upload area.
2
Fill in required metadata: title, description.
3
Click Upload. Your browser streams the file directly to DataHub storage.
4
Once complete, a UChicago Knowledge record is created automatically. Follow the link to add any additional metadata.

Files larger than 30 GB must be transferred via Globus. The upload will be rejected if the limit is exceeded.

Go to Direct Upload

Globus Transfer

Any size

HPC & servers

Best for large datasets, HPC output, or files on remote research infrastructure.

Workflow

1
Authenticate with Globus using your institutional credentials.
2
Choose your source endpoint — an HPC cluster, lab server, or personal Globus Connect endpoint.
3
Browse the remote filesystem and select the files or folders to transfer.
4
Fill in required metadata (title, description) and submit. Globus handles the transfer in the background.
5
Track progress in My Uploads. You will receive a notification when the transfer completes and the UChicago Knowledge record is ready.

Globus transfers are fault-tolerant and resume automatically if interrupted. No need to keep your browser open during the transfer.

Go to Globus Transfer