Accessing XNAT

This guide covers how to access the NYUAD XNAT platform, from initial account creation to project access.

Network Access Requirements

Important

XNAT at NYUAD is hosted within NYUAD’s network and is not accessible to the public.

  • On Campus: Users must be connected to NYU Abu Dhabi WiFi to access XNAT

  • Off Campus: Users must connect to the NYUAD VPN before accessing XNAT

VPN Setup:

  • VPN Address for Abu Dhabi: vpn.abudhabi.nyu.edu

  • For installation and setup instructions, see the NYU VPN Guide

If you are unable to access XNAT, ensure you are connected to NYUAD WiFi or the VPN before attempting to log in.

Account Registration


Step 1: Navigate to XNAT

Visit https://xnat.abudhabi.nyu.edu

Step 2: Sign in with Google

Click the “Sign in with Google” button to begin registration.

Step 3: Complete Registration

Enter information in the required fields.

Step 4: Submit Registration

Scroll to the bottom and click “Register” to submit your account request.

Account Approval Process

Authorization Required

All new accounts require administrator approval for security purposes.

Approval Timeline
  • Your registration request is sent to the site administrator

  • Contact: admin.nyuad.xnat@nyu.edu

  • Processing time: Typically 1-2 business days

Approval Notification

You’ll receive an email confirmation once your account is approved.

Project Access

Requesting Project Access

After your account is approved, you’ll need access to specific projects:

  1. Identify Projects: Determine which research projects you need access to

  2. Email Request: Contact us (admin.nyuad.xnat@nyu.edu) with:

    • Your name and email address

    • Specific project names you need access to

    • Brief explanation of your role/purpose

Project Access Timeline

Project access is typically granted within 1 business day of request.

Signing In

For Existing Users

Once your account is approved:

  1. Ensure Network Access: Make sure you are connected to NYUAD WiFi or the NYUAD VPN (vpn.abudhabi.nyu.edu)

  2. Navigate to https://xnat.abudhabi.nyu.edu

  3. Click “Sign in with Google”

  4. Use your approved Google account credentials

  5. Access your authorized projects

Authentication Method

XNAT uses Google OAuth for secure authentication. You must use the same Google account that was approved during registration.

Account Management

API Tokens

For programmatic access (scripts, automated downloads):

API

  • Go to your profile → “Manage Alias Tokens”

  • Create new tokens as needed

  • Use tokens instead of passwords for security

Password Requirements

No separate XNAT password needed - authentication is handled through Google OAuth.

Session Management
  • Sessions remain active while using XNAT

  • Log out when finished for security

  • Re-authentication required after extended inactivity

Next Steps

After gaining access to XNAT: