• SEARCH
  • DATA
  • ANALYSIS
  • HUMAN

How to find scientific datasets with your AI

Connect OSTI to your AI client to turn natural language questions into precise dataset lookups. Once connected, your agent handles the heavy lifting of navigating the DOE Data Explorer.

Ask AI about this page

Short answer

How can I find scientific datasets using my AI?

Your AI uses the OSTI connector to query the DOE Data Explorer for specific research records. It pulls the relevant metadata so you can inspect dataset details without leaving your chat interface.

The results

Where your data lands

The AI handles the search and retrieval, leaving you with the data you actually need.

SEARCH

Targeted dataset discovery

The AI scans the DOE Data Explorer for specific research topics or keywords. You get a list of matching records instead of a wall of search results.

DATA

Direct metadata access

The agent pulls specific record details once a match is found. You get the technical metadata needed to understand the dataset's scope.

ANALYSIS

Immediate data context

Because the AI reads the metadata, you can ask follow-up questions about the research content immediately. It bridges the gap between finding a file and understanding it.

HUMAN

Manual verification

You still need to check the original DOE source to download the actual files or verify the full research papers. The AI provides the pointers, but you perform the final validation.

The workflow

What your AI does when the request arrives.

The AI moves from broad searching to specific record retrieval to answer your questions.

  1. Scans the explorer

    The AI looks through the DOE Data Explorer to find datasets that match your specific research criteria.

    search_data_explorer_records

  2. Pulls record details

    Once a relevant dataset is identified, the agent grabs the specific metadata for that individual record.

    get_data_explorer_record

  3. Filters results

    The AI uses the retrieved metadata to narrow down the list, ensuring the results actually fit your needs.

    search_data_explorer_records

  4. Summarizes findings

    The agent presents the most relevant dataset information in a clean format for you to review.

    get_data_explorer_record

Try it

Copy these to start.

Use these prompts to kick off your search.

Starting points

Swap out the bracketed terms for your specific research topics or DOE identifiers.

OSTI Connector

You're all set. Choose your MCP client and follow the setup instructions.

Connector linkhttps://edge.vinkius.com/vk_preview_pG4xCqNgxW4p54Mwmm4GWj482JeAOzG4qTA4ZDKL/mcp

Claude Desktop

Follow the steps below to connect in seconds.

  1. 1In Claude Desktop, open Settings → Connectors.
  2. 2Click “Add custom connector” and paste the connector link above as the remote MCP server URL.
  3. 3Click Add and start a new chat — OSTI capabilities are ready to use.
Configuration · claude_desktop_config.jsonCopy
{
  "mcpServers": {
    "osti-doe-scientific-research-mcp": {
      "url": "https://edge.vinkius.com/vk_preview_pG4xCqNgxW4p54Mwmm4GWj482JeAOzG4qTA4ZDKL/mcp"
    }
  }
}
Copy into chat04

  • Find datasets in the DOE Data Explorer related to [fusion energy research].

  • Get the metadata for the record with ID [insert_id_here].

  • Search for scientific datasets involving [carbon sequestration] in the DOE explorer.

  • List the metadata for recent datasets about [quantum computing] found in the explorer.

  • Claude
  • ChatGPT
  • Cursor
  • VS Code
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  • JetBrains
  • Cline

Start here

Connect OSTI once, then ask.

Just click to connect. Your credentials stay encrypted, and you can start querying the DOE Data Explorer immediately in your preferred client.

Connect OSTI to your AI

FAQ

How this task behaves

  • 01

    Can the AI download the actual large datasets?

    No. The AI can only retrieve the metadata and record details from the explorer. You must go to the DOE site to download the files.

  • 02

    Can the AI update or edit DOE records?

    No. The tools only allow for searching and retrieving existing information. The AI cannot change any data in the DOE system.

  • 03

    Does the AI search all scientific databases?

    No. This specific connection is limited to the DOE Data Explorer via the OSTI tools.

  • 04

    Can I use this with Claude or Cursor?

    Yes. Any MCP-compatible client can use this once you connect it through Vinkius.

  • 05

    How does the AI find the right record?

    It uses the search tool to find matches based on your keywords and then pulls the specific record details to confirm it's what you need.

  • More questions about OSTI? The Connector page answers them. See everything the OSTI Connector can do

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