> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://wiki.solids.group/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://wiki.solids.group/getting-started/onboarding.md).

# Onboarding

This page is a starting point for new members of the Solid Mechanics Research Group.

## First Technical Setup

Set up the tools needed for day-to-day group work:

1. Get access to the appropriate group servers or computing resources.
2. Confirm that you can connect using SSH.
3. Change your password the first time you log in.
4. Set up SSH public-key authentication.
5. Confirm whether you need ISU VPN access for off-campus work.
6. Install local tools for writing, plotting, and simulation postprocessing.

Relevant pages:

* [Server Access](/computing/server-access.md)
* [SSH Public Keys](/computing/ssh-public-keys.md)
* [ISU VPN on Ubuntu 24.04](/computing/isu-vpn-on-ubuntu-2404.md)
* [Python on Windows](/computing/python-on-windows.md)

## Research Workflow

Before generating publishable results, read the group guidance on data and publication organization.

Relevant pages:

* [Writing and Presentations](/research-practices/writing-and-presentations.md)
* [Data Management](/research-practices/data-management.md)
* [Presenting Simulation Results](/research-practices/presenting-simulation-results.md)

## Group Expectations

Group work should be reproducible, well documented, and organized so that future students can understand and reuse it. Use Git, Overleaf, or Google Docs for version control and collaboration. Do not manage group documents by emailing file versions.


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