Collaborating on molecular projects often involves more than just sharing a molecular structure. From scripts and input files to figures and related data, managing and organizing all the assets linked to a research project can be a challenge—especially when working across different computers or collaborators. If you’ve ever forgotten to send an essential file, or struggled to reproduce your own work because a key folder had moved, then file embedding in SAMSON might be a feature worth exploring.
SAMSON documents are not just containers for molecular models. Thanks to its Universal File Embedding capability, you can package an entire research context—including Python scripts, images, datasets, papers, and more—into a single file. This feature simplifies project portability and ensures long-term accessibility, no matter where or when the document is opened.
How it works
Embedding files or folders in SAMSON is straightforward. Simply drag and drop them into the interface. You’ll be asked whether you wish to embed them into the active document. Alternatively, from the top menu, you can go to Home > Embed files or Home > Embed folders.
Once embedded, these files become part of the SAMSON Document. They are stored inside the document file—eliminating the need to keep external folders synchronized. Whether you’re embedding machine learning models, experimental data, or publication drafts, they remain bundled with the editable molecular model.
Why embedding matters
- Reproducibility: By embedding associated analysis code or datasets, it becomes much easier to revisit a project months later or reproduce results with fidelity.
- Collaboration: Sending a single file to colleagues simplifies coordination and reduces file management issues.
- Portability: Because all files are self-contained, switching between computers doesn’t require copying multiple folders. Just open the document in SAMSON and everything is there.
This is especially beneficial when working in research teams, preparing teaching materials, or submitting computational supplements alongside publications. As research workflows become increasingly data-driven, the ability to encapsulate materials in one portable file becomes a time-saver—and sometimes a lifesaver.
Also, SAMSON’s support for Python integration means that embedded scripts can be run directly within the environment, which is useful for interactive notebooks or simulations. It’s not only a storage solution—it fosters smoother scientific communication.
To learn more about embedding files and folders in SAMSON, visit the official documentation: https://documentation.samson-connect.net/users/latest/loading-molecules/.
SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. Get SAMSON at https://www.samson-connect.net.