Unleashing the Power of Exascale Computing: Genci's 2022 Activity Report
We are thrilled to present the highly anticipated activity report of Genci for the year 2022.
As a leading organization responsible for providing powerful computational and data processing resources, Genci has been instrumental in driving scientific research and innovation at both the national and European levels.
With a mission to promote the use of supercomputing coupled with artificial intelligence, Genci has made significant strides in benefitting scientific research communities, academia, and industrial sectors. Join us as we explore the remarkable achievements showcased in this 68-page report.
Launching Innovative Programs and Initiatives:
Genci’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of computational capabilities is evident through the launch of several groundbreaking programs and initiatives. The report highlights key projects, such as:
- NumPEx: The NumPEx initiative aims to harness the power of supercomputing and AI to drive scientific progress. By providing researchers with cutting-edge computational resources, Genci enables them to tackle complex challenges across various scientific domains.
- Jules Verne Consortium for Exascale: Genci’s partnership in the Jules Verne Consortium demonstrates their dedication to advancing exascale computing. This collaboration fosters innovation and propels research in areas that were once unimaginable.
- CLUSSTER Project: The CLUSSTER project focuses on integrating cloud computing solutions into Genci’s infrastructure. By embracing the cloud, Genci enhances flexibility and scalability, enabling researchers to tackle data-intensive workloads with ease.
- New Supercomputer “Adastra”: Genci’s introduction of the state-of-the-art supercomputer “Adastra” marks a significant milestone. With its remarkable computational power, Adastra empowers researchers to tackle complex simulations, accelerate data analysis, and drive scientific breakthroughs.
Driving Quantum Computing Advancements:
Genci recognizes the immense potential of quantum computing and has made significant progress in this field. The report highlights notable achievements, including:
- National Hybrid Quantum Computing Platform: Genci has played a pivotal role in launching of this platform. This initiative fosters collaboration and enables researchers to explore the capabilities of quantum computing in solving real-world problems.
- Integration of Quantum Systems: Genci has acquired its first quantum systems, marking a significant step towards enabling researchers to harness the power of quantum computing. These systems pave the way for groundbreaking research and innovation in quantum-enabled applications.
- The Quantum Package: Genci’s Quantum Package (PAck Quantique) provides researchers with the necessary tools and resources to explore hybrid quantum computing systems. This initiative promotes the development of novel algorithms and applications that bridge classical and quantum computing.
Advancements in Artificial Intelligence:
Genci has embraced the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, as highlighted in the report:
Bloom Model: Genci’s Bloom Model showcases their efforts to develop cutting-edge AI algorithms and frameworks. By combining supercomputing with AI, Genci facilitates breakthrough research in machine learning, deep learning, and data analytics.
Contributing to Scientific Research and Industry:
Genci is dedicated to supporting scientific research communities, academia, and industrial sectors through different initiatives, as exemplified by their efforts in:
- Reusing Waste Heat: Genci’s innovative approach includes the valorization of waste heat generated by the Jean Zay supercomputer. This environmentally friendly initiative showcases Genci’s dedication to sustainability and efficient resource utilization.
- Grands Challenges: Genci actively supports researchers in tackling grand challenges, providing them with the computational resources needed to address complex problems across diverse scientific disciplines.
- Exemplary Simulations: The report presents compelling examples of simulations conducted with Genci’s resources, showcasing the impactful discoveries and advancements made possible through their support.
- Community of Large Industrial Groups: Genci’s collaboration with large industrial groups highlights their commitment to bridging the gap between academia and industry. By fostering partnerships, Genci facilitates the transfer of cutting-edge research and technological advancements into real-world applications.
Genci’s Regional and European Ecosystem:
The report highlights Genci’s active involvement in regional and European initiatives:
- Regional Initiatives: Genci actively contributes to regional development through initiatives like SiMSEO, Competence Center, and MesoNet. These programs encourage cooperation among research institutions and industries, which promotes innovation and contributes to economic growth..
- European Collaborations: Genci’s participation in European collaborations, such as PRACE, EuroHPC, EUPEX, and EPI SGA, underscores their commitment to establishing a strong European ecosystem for high-performance computing. These collaborations facilitate knowledge exchange, resource sharing, and foster a vibrant European research community.
The 2022 Activity Report by Genci demonstrates their commitment to empowering scientific research and driving innovation by integrating exascale computing, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing.
Through the launch of groundbreaking programs, the introduction of cutting-edge technologies, and collaborations with research communities and industry, Genci has made significant contributions to advancing scientific frontiers.
Their commitment to sustainable practices and regional and European partnerships further solidifies their position as a leading provider of computational resources.
As we look to the future, Genci continues to pave the way for transformative discoveries and breakthroughs in scientific research and technological innovation.
NumPEx Launches into Action with an Ambitious Kick-Off Agenda in Perros-Guirrec
In a series of dynamic sessions hosted from June 26th to 28th in the charming town of Perros-Guirrec, NumPEx embarked on an intensive kick-off event, setting the stage for a transformative journey in Exascale computing. Leaders, experts, and collaborators convened to delve into an agenda rich with insights,workshops, and collaborative initiatives.
The kick-off began with a comprehensive introduction, outlining the objectives and significance of the NumPEx program, aiming to establish a common vision and foster collaboration to implement a coherent software stack and related processes by 2025, benefiting not only France but also Europe, in preparation for the Exascale machine. Key figures such as Jerome Bobin, Michel Dayde, and Jean-Yves Berthou elaborated on the program's goals and organizational structure. Board members shared their perspectives on the Exascale vision and roadmaps:
GENCI's Exascale Vision and Roadmap:
- Presentation of GENCI's role and missions, including hosting the Exascale project for EuroHPC.
- European HPC initiative partnership with EuroHPC and others, leveraging PRACE and GEANT.
- Introduction of the Jules Verne consortium, highlighting international and industrial partnerships.
- Vision of the European Exascale machine: addressing societal challenges, fostering innovation, and emphasizing HPC/IA data-centric convergence.
- Collaboration plans with NumPEx, including building a functional program, benchmark development, and product promotion.
Eviden Exascale Vision and Roadmap:
- Eviden's complex approach involving HPC, HPDA, IA, and quantum technologies with a focus on sovereign and European components.
- Involvement in the European integrated processor for Exascale machines (SiPearl) and collaborations with various technology projects.
- Collaboration with CEPP for application support and participation in technology projects related to Exascale, quantum, cloud, and more.
National and European Ecosystem:
- Introduction of EUPEX, a 4-year project with a budget similar to NumPEx, aiming to deploy a modular Exascale system using the OpenSequana architecture.
- Collaboration with NumPEx, potential for shared experiments and results, and exploration of common dissemination.
- Presentation of Data Direct Network (DDN) with a focus on AI and Lustre parallel file system, highlighting challenges and the importance of understanding NumPEx applications.
The afternoon continued with a tour of the five projects (PCs) within the NumPEx program:
- Exa-MA, which aims to design scalable algorithms and numerical methods for forthcoming exascale machines. Led by Christophe Prudhomme (Université de Strasbourg) and Helene Barucq (Inria).
- Exa-Soft, to develop a coherent, portable, efficient, and resilient software stack for exascale. Led by Raymond Namyst (Inria) and Alfredo Buttari (CNRS - Centre national de la recherche scientifique).
- Exa-DoST, to overcome challenges relating to data, notably storage, I/O, in situ processing, and smart analytics, in exascale supercomputers. Led by Gabriel Antoniu (Inria) and Julien Bigot (CEA).
- Exa-ATOW, to deal with large-scale workflows involving exascale machines. Led by François Bodin (Université de Rennes), Mark Asch (Université de Picardie Jules Verne (UPJV)), and Thierry Deutsch (CEA).
- Exa-DI, to ensure transverse co-design and software productivity for exascale supercomputers. Led by Jean-Pierre Vilotte (CNRS) and Valérie Brenner (CEA).
The day concluded with an emphasis on the collaborative efforts between NumPEx and other initiatives, with a focus on benchmark development, software-hardware links, and the overall goal of preparing for the challenges of the Exascale era.
The second day kicked off with an invigorating early morning jog along the seashore, setting a vibrant tone for a day filled with thematic workshops. Participants engaged in focused discussions on energy synergies, GPU integration, applications, co-design, gender/diversity/equity, software production integration, training, resilience, international collaborations, and artificial intelligence. Thematic workshops, led by domain experts, fostered collaboration within smaller groups, emphasizing the program's commitment to a transverse approach to Exascale challenges.
The final day commenced with a synthesis of workshop outcomes, highlighting the depth of discussions within each thematic area. Workshop leaders consolidated insights, offering a panoramic view of challenges and opportunities. Here is an overview of the key insights and strategic actions discussed during these workshops:
GPU Accelerators Workshop
In a dedicated workshop on GPU Accelerators, experts emphasized the pivotal role of Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) in achieving exascale computing. With 90-99% of large machine performance attributed to GPU acceleration, the workshop highlighted the need for applications to explore the potential of these powerful processors. Challenges discussed included new programming paradigms, code portability, data management, and the hardware landscape driven by gaming and artificial intelligence. The workshop outlined a comprehensive plan, including future workshops, analysis papers, tutorials, hackathons, and examples of successfully ported mini-apps.
Energy Workshop
The Energy Workshop focused on achieving Exascale computing within a power consumption limit of 20MW. Experts delved into environmental, scientific, technical, and societal dimensions, providing a roadmap for the HPC community. Key challenges identified included modeling system consumption, real-time measurement tools, resource prioritization based on societal impact, and the broader environmental impact of research activities. The action plan involves developing a performance and consumption model, optimization strategies, tools for users, and fostering links with external entities to incorporate energy considerations.
Gender Equity and Diversity Seminar
The action plan includes the establishment of a Code of Conduct, assessment of gender distribution, creation of a web platform for resources, education and training initiatives, awareness and outreach programs, and dedication to accessibility and recognition. NumPEx aims to create an inclusive and collaborative future, inviting all stakeholders to contribute to the initiatives.
AI Workshop
The AI Workshop explored the critical intersection of HPC and AI, addressing challenges and outlining a strategic plan for collaborative exploration. Key discussions included decision support tools for AI applications in HPC, optimizing runtimes for AI models, and converging HPC and AI usages. The action plan involves establishing an AI Working Group, conducting transversal workshops, and developing fundamental building blocks for a convergent future.
Training Strategies Workshop
The Training Strategies Workshop addressed the complexities of training in the context of the impending exascale era. Discussions included the scope and subjects of training programs, the creation of sustainable training models, and economic considerations in training initiatives. The workshop emphasized collaborative and inclusive training initiatives to prepare the scientific community for the challenges and opportunities of exascale computing.
International Collaborations Workshop
The International Collaborations Workshop focused on identifying challenges and setting objectives for enhanced collaborative frameworks on a European and global scale. Discussions covered scientific and technological challenges, the design and development of the exascale software stack, and strategic action plans. The outlined roadmap includes hosting workshops, exchanging insights and experiences, and strengthening collaborations with international entities.
National Centers Integration Workshop
The National Centers Integration Workshop aimed to align NumPEx with HPC infrastructures, emphasizing operational elements between computing centers and NumPEx 's targeted projects. Discussions covered operational assessment, cybersecurity, job profiling, and traceability. The workshop set a plan for regular video conferences, ensuring ongoing communication and collaboration.
Software Production Workshop
The Software Production Workshop focused on streamlining software development practices in the HPC domain. Challenges discussed included bridging silos, enforcing good practices, and amplifying impact. Insights and conclusions highlighted diverse development practices, sustainability models, and the deployment of continuous integration and certification. NumPEx 's commitment to advancing software production practices aims to foster innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development in HPC.
Exascale Resilience Workshop
The Exascale Resilience Workshop navigated complexities associated with exascale application deployment. Discussions covered diverse approaches across NumPEx PCs, key challenges, and strategic choices. The action plan involves listing and analyzing application needs, analyzing barriers to library adoption, and scrutinizing international solutions. NumPEx aims to foster collaborative solutions for enhanced application resilience at a global scale.
Applications and Co-Design Workshop
The Applications and Co-Design Workshop promoted co-development strategies for advanced application development. Discussions included challenges in co-design, key questions for collective exploration, building connections, and initiatives for sustainability. The workshop set the stage for upcoming co-development project workshops, emphasizing collaboration and innovation.
As the leaders bid farewell to Perros-Guirrec, NumPEx looks ahead to transforming shared visions and insights into tangible actions in the realm of Exascale computing. The kick-off marked the initiation of a collaborative journey, and NumPEx is poised to lead the charge in scientific innovation.
For the latest updates and progress on the NumPEx program, stay tuned to our news section. The journey to Exascale has begun, and NumPEx is at the forefront of this pioneering expedition.
