The Computation-based Science and Technology Research Center (CaSToRC) recently hosted the “High-Performance Computing (HPC) for Research in Cyprus” event, gathering academics and researchers from Universities, Research Centers and Centers of Excellence across Cyprus. Organized under the EuroCC-2 project, the event served as a platform for participants to exchange insights on leveraging high-performance computing (HPC) to drive advancements in computational modelling, large-scale data analytics, and machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI).
As Cyprus’ National Competence Center for HPC, CaSToRC is committed to enhancing the capabilities of the country’s computational researchers. The center offers consultations, training, and support for accessing and utilizing HPC resources through the EuroCC-2 projec. This event provided a platform for Cypriot researchers to network, discuss computational challenges, and explore collaborative opportunities.
In his welcome address, Dr. Vassilios Tsakalos, Director of Research and Technical Services and Support at The Cyprus Institute, underscored the critical importance of high-performance computing infrastructure in advancing research throughout Cyprus. He highlighted the necessity of forming partnerships with international academic institutions to foster collaborations that enhance research capabilities and drive innovation across the region. Dr. Tsakalos also stressed the importance of sustained investment in HPC to ensure that Cypriot researchers remain at the cutting edge of technological advancements, enabling them to address complex challenges in computational modeling, data analytics, and artificial intelligence.
Prof. Constantine Dovrolis, Director of CaSToRC and PI of EuroCC-2 project in Cyprus, delivered an insightful presentation on the role of HPC in supporting large-scale ML models. He posed a critical question: what adaptations to our HPC infrastructure are necessary in Cyprus to effectively train these expansive models? Prof. Dovrolis emphasized that Cyprus requires a state-of-the-art national cluster to meet these demands. He also discussed funding opportunities and collaborations related to AI factories, underscoring the need for enhanced HPC resources to support AI initiatives. He concluded by stating that AI factories represent a unique opportunity for Cyprus to establish its own AI-optimized supercomputer.
The event also featured an enlightening presentation by Dr. Christodoulos Stylianou, a Research Engineer at CaSToRC, who discussed how to access computational resources for HPC and AI projects through the EuroHPC Joint Undertaking systems.
Compelling presentations from various academics and researchers highlighted the diverse applications of HPC in research across Cyprus. Esteemed speakers included:
- Prof. Sergios Agapiou, University of Cyprus
- Prof. George Spyrou, Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics
- Prof. Andreas Efstathiou, European University of Cyprus
- Prof. Demetrios Eliades, KIOS Research and Innovation CoE
- Prof. Vasileios Vavourakis, University of Cyprus
- Prof. Loizos Michael, Open University of Cyprus & CYENS CoE
- Prof. Michael Sirivianos, Cyprus University of Technology
- Prof. Nikos Savva, University of Cyprus
- Dr. Marina Loizidou, Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute
- Dr. Ioannis Kokkinakis, University of Nicosia
- Dr. Michalis Mavrovouniotis, Eratosthenes CoE
Additionally, presentations from CaSToRC faculty and research staff showcased their technical expertise in HPC and illustrated the tangible impact of their research. These presentations included contributions from:
- Dr. Jose Araya, CARE-C, The Cyprus Institute
- Prof. Vangelis Harmandaris, CaSToRC, The Cyprus Institute
- Prof. Giannis Koutsou, CaSToRC, The Cyprus Institute
- Prof. Mihalis Nicolaou, CaSToRC, The Cyprus Institute
The “High-Performance Computing (HPC) for Research in Cyprus” event showcased the critical role that HPC plays in advancing research and innovation across a wide range of fields. By bringing together key stakeholders in the Cypriot research community, CaSToRC and the EuroCC-2 project are helping to strengthen the country’s computational research capabilities and foster new collaborations. With ongoing support and resources, Cyprus’ researchers are well-positioned to make important breakthroughs using cutting-edge HPC technologies.
