Cosmos
Cosmos is a de-identified dataset created in collaboration with a community of health systems using Epic and is designed to improve patient care. With basic user access, UT Southwestern researchers can immediately perform aggregate-level analysis of over 300 million patients. You can also complete training through Epic to get line-level access to query the dataset and for statistical analysis.
Who can access Cosmos?
- Any UT Southwestern Clinical Researcher and investigator
- Medical students engaged in approved research projects under UTSW faculty
- Access is granted only after all requirements are met
Access Request
To get access to UT SouthWestern Cosmos, you will need to be an Epic User, have an Epic UserWeb account, and have Duo Authentication. To get access to Childrens Medical Center or Parkland Cosmos please contact their helpdesk.
- Epic UserWeb Account using your UT Southwestern credentials
- Local Epic Account: If you do not have a UTSW Epic Account, HSIR can work with you to obtain one. This account is required even for Cosmos-only access.
- DUO Multifactor Authentication
- UT Southwestern ServiceNow ticket to request Cosmos Access
What are the different types of Cosmos access?
- Option 1: SlicerDicer (Aggregate-Level Data)
Recommended for:
- Hypothesis generation
- Exploratory research
- Projects not requiring line-level data
Key features:
- Graphical interface (no coding required)
- De-identified aggregate counts only
- No IRB oversight required
- Limited data export
Recommended Training: Cosmos Super User Badge
How to know which training is right for you: Overview of Cosmos Training
- Option 2: Cosmos Data Scientist
Key features:
- Data Science Virtual Machine access
- Advanced data analysis
- Python, R, or Excel workflows
Required Training: Epic certification
How to know which training is right for you: Overview of Cosmos Training
- Option 3: Cosmos Data Model for Data Architects
Key Features
- All Cosmos Data Scientist tools
- SQL-based queries
Required Training: Epic certification
How to know which training is right for you: Overview of Cosmos Training
UserWeb Authentication Redirect
What are Responsible Use Guidelines?
DO
- Use Cosmos only for approved UTSW academic or research purposes
- Ensure your project aligns with de-identified, aggregate data use
- Use the Cosmos Data Dictionary to understand data availability and quality
- Follow publication and acknowledgment guidelines
- Ask for guidance if unsure about appropriate data use
DON'T
- Attempt to identify individuals or institutions
- Download or store restricted data locally
- Use Cosmos for clinical decision-making
- Share access credentials
- Misrepresent Cosmos data as institutional-specific results
Who can I contact with additional questions?
If you have additional questions, please contact us by via email.