High Performance Computing for Research 

Since August, the new high-performance computer 'Festus,' developed by the BZHPC (Research Center for Scientific Computing), has been in its testing phase. Funded by the DFG, the cluster was designed and built by ITS staff to meet the needs of the 40 BZHPC members. We asked key contributors some questions about this exciting project:

What were the main reasons for procuring a new HPC cluster? 

René Meißner, IT Service of the University of Bayreuth: The demand for computing power at the University of Bayreuth has risen significantly. Computer-based methods are no longer niche tools—they are used in all disciplines. This growing demand could no longer be met by the existing systems.

What new possibilities and capacities does the new HPC cluster offer compared to the old system? 

René Meißner: The new cluster provides additional and faster computing resources. For some applications, 'Festus' is twice as fast per core. It also offers increased storage capacity and improved fault tolerance. Moreover, 'Festus' saves energy by shutting down unused components. These benefits are advantageous for both the users and the university. Further improvements, such as topology-sensitive scheduling*, are designed for specialists.

Who has access to the HPC cluster and what requirements must users fulfill?

René Meißner: The HPC cluster will be available to all university members starting in mid-January. Members of chairs involved in the procurement process will have priority for job processing.

What is special about the BZHPC and how can researchers who were not involved in the application process use the computer? 

Prof. Dr. Stephan Kümmel, Theoretical Physics IV - Electronic structure and dynamics: The unique aspect of the BZ HPC is that it allows researchers from different chairs, departments, and faculties to collaboratively procure and utilize large-scale research equipment. This approach fosters synergies and ensures optimal use of existing resources in a sustainable manner. Additionally, all researchers at UBT benefit from this initiative, as the computing systems are accessible to everyone through a prioritization system.

What goals are to be achieved with the new HPC cluster in quantum mechanics?

Prof. Dr. Stephan Kümmel: My group conducts research in many-particle quantum mechanics. The new cluster will enable us to simulate energy and electron transfer processes in light-harvesting systems, such as photosynthesis or photocatalysis. Through this work, we hope to contribute to the development of new materials for a more sustainable energy supply.

Why is computing an important tool for materials physics? 

Prof. Dr. Harald Oberhofer, Theoretical Physics VII - Computer-aided material design: We work in theoretical material physics, focusing on charge transport processes in organic and inorganic energy materials, and on designing new materials. We simulate microscopic influences on transport based on electronic density functional theory, which requires solving complex integro-differential equations. These simulations are only feasible with high-performance computing. Thanks to 'Festus,' we can analyze larger, more realistic simulation cells and use more accurate, computationally intensive methods.

What contribution can “Festus” make to your field of work in theoretical physics? 

Prof. Dr. Michael Wilczek, Theoretical Physics I: My group studies various complex systems, with turbulence as a central theme. We investigate fundamental properties of turbulent flows as well as phenomena like raindrop dynamics in clouds or plankton in the ocean. Computer simulations play a crucial role—they help us understand phenomena and provide data for further analysis. Simulations are essentially our computer-based experiments. With 'Festus,' we can conduct simulations in-house, which has several advantages: we receive results without long wait times, enabling rapid development of new ideas for research. Additionally, we have direct access to ITS experts, who support our work and tailor 'Festus' to our needs. 'Festus' complements the regional computing resources we also use for our work.

What role can “Festus” play in genetics research? 

Prof. Dr. Corina Vlot-Schuster, Genetik der Nutzpflanzen: Our team at the Chair of Crop Plant Genetics studies the molecular foundations of disease resistance in plants. A key focus is on priming, a process triggered by local infection in one leaf, which enhances the entire plant's resistance to multiple pathogens. The genetic traits supporting priming could be used to improve crop protection and adapt plants to future climate conditions. In our research, we analyze RNA sequencing data to study gene expression across the entire plant genome. Recently, we installed a high-throughput imaging system at the Kulmbach campus greenhouse. This system automatically measures key plant growth parameters, such as height, greenness, projected leaf area, and derived digital biomass. It allows us to correlate digital image data with gene expression from RNA sequencing, enabling faster identification of genetic traits that promote plant growth under stress and disease pressure.