JOSUA is a modern, highly flexible software solution for secure remote computing. It enables researchers around the world to access sensitive datasets in a protected environment when direct data provision is not possible due to data protection or usage restrictions. As an efficient and secure alternative to traditional data access models, JOSUA can be precisely tailored to the requirements of different data providers through its configurable level of automation.
The software was originally developed at the Institute of Labor Economics (IZA) and implemented at its International Data Service Center (IDSC). It is used, among others, by the Institute for Employment Research (IAB) and the Institute for Educational Quality Improvement (IQB). Via remote access, researchers can work with a wide range of IAB datasets, including the IAB Employment Panel.
By taking over responsibility for JOSUA, the University of Bonn further strengthens its infrastructure for data-intensive research. Researchers benefit from a permanently available, professionally managed access to complex datasets, while data providers can rely on a well-established, data-protection-compliant technical solution.
The technical and organizational transition will begin on January 1, 2026. At the start of the year, David Schöpf and Dominik Wasielewski will join the team, taking on key roles in the further development and operation of the software. David Schöpf originally developed JOSUA at IZA.