Software as an Infrastructure

Susan Morrell, Head of Research Infrastructure, Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, United Kingdom

(slides)

Computer-supported modelling and simulation is now widely recognised as the third `leg` of scientific method, alongside theory and experimentation. It is the software that allows researchers to access the increasing power of the hardware to carry out their research. The large suite of codes used in research therefore needs to be regarded as a research infrastructure in its own right, requiring support and maintenance throughout its lifecycle. This is particularly relevant in the context of high-performance computing, where computing platforms change several times over the typical life time of a code, and different algorithmic and programming approaches have a huge impact on code performance and sustainability . This presentation will cover the approaches the UK’s Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council uses to provide this support and outline its future strategic plans. This ranges from provision of computational support, development and re-engineering of existing code for existing and new architectures, code optimisation and sustainability, development of novel code, and training and skills development.