The NCC Netherlands

Introduction to Scientific Visualisation with ParaView
2024-04-17 09:00 - 13:00 UTC | Online
Annotation
NCC Netherlands and NCC Czechia are inviting you to the course Introduction to Scientific Visualisation with ParaView.
Read moreThis foundational course introduces participants to the fundamentals of scientific visualisation using ParaView, an accessible and powerful open-source tool widely utilised in academic and professional settings. Attendees will embark on a structured exploration, starting with a clear distinction between scientific visualisation and information visualisation, setting the stage for understanding their respective roles and applications.
Through guided instruction, participants will acquire a solid grasp of the ParaView data model and pipelines, learning how to navigate and manipulate data effectively. Practical exercises will enable attendees to apply these concepts hands-on, gaining confidence in performing basic visualisation tasks and experimenting with various data types.
By the conclusion of this introductory course, participants will have developed a foundational skill set in leveraging ParaView for scientific visualisation. Equipped with this knowledge, attendees will be poised to explore advanced techniques and applications further, laying a solid groundwork for continued growth and proficiency in the field.
Benefits for the attendees, what will they learn

An overview of scientific visualization versus information visualization
The basics of the ParaView data model and pipelines
Performing basic visualization tasks with ParaView, including hands-on experience with a number of different types of data and visualization aspects.

Level
beginner
Language
English
Prerequisites
None in terms of experience, but a laptop with ParaView installed is required.
Tutors
Paul Melis, Casper van Leeuwen
Paul Melis has been with SURF since 2009 and works on scientific visualization and eXtended Reality Innovation. Casper van Leeuwen joined SURF in 2014 and focuses, amongst other things, on interactive (web-based) visualization. They both have an MSc in Computer Science, Paul from the University of Twente, Casper from the University of Delft. They have a range of visualization support and development experience regarding 3D graphics, interactive 3D visualization and remote visualization. They work within the High-Performance Computing & Visualization group at SURF, where they support the users of the Dutch Supercomputer Snellius with visualization-related tasks. They also regularly demo XR devices and applications, develop demos, or get involved in producing visualizations for PR purposes.
Starts 17 Apr 2024, 09:00
Ends 17 Apr 2024, 13:00
Europe/Prague
ONLINE
Registration
Registration is obligatory. Only registered participants will receive the Zoom link.
After the number of registrations has reached its maximum or the registration form has been closed, you may want to send us an email stating that you are interested to be put on the waiting list. (Vacancies may occur due to cancellations, etc.) E-mail to training@it4i.cz.
Practicalities
This training will be an online event. Technical details about joining will be sent to the accepted registrants before the event.
Please note that the training is held using Zoom. We advise all participants to download the Zoom application to enjoy full functionality.
Capacity and Fees
The capacity is limited to 30 participants.
Please note that the course is open and free of charge for participants from the Member States (MS) of the European Union (EU) and Associated/Other Countries to the Horizon 2020 programme.

Introduction to Scientific Visualization with ParaView
2024-04-17 09:00 - 13:00 | Online
NCC Netherlands and NCC Czechia cordially invite you to embark on a transformative journey into the world of scientific visualization with our course: Introduction to Scientific Visualization with ParaView.
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About the Course:
This foundational course serves as your gateway to mastering scientific visualization using ParaView, a versatile open-source tool widely employed in academic and professional environments. Led by experienced tutors, Paul Melis and Casper van Leeuwen, participants will delve into the core concepts and practical applications of scientific visualization, gaining invaluable insights and skills along the way.
Key Highlights:

Gain a comprehensive understanding of scientific visualization versus information visualization.
Explore the intricacies of the ParaView data model and pipelines.
Acquire hands-on experience in performing basic visualization tasks with ParaView, covering various data types and visualization aspects.

Level: Beginner
Language: English
Prerequisites: None (Participants are required to have a laptop with ParaView installed.)
Tutors:

Paul Melis: Scientific Visualization and eXtended Reality Innovation expert at SURF.
Casper van Leeuwen: Specializes in interactive (web-based) visualization at SURF.

Acknowledgements: This project is supported by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency.
Registration:
Secure your spot now by registering here. Please note that registration is obligatory, and only registered participants will receive the Zoom link. In case of full registration, you may express your interest in joining the waiting list by emailing us at training@it4i.cz.
Capacity and Fees:
The course is open and free of charge for participants from the Member States (MS) of the European Union (EU) and Associated/Other Countries to the Horizon 2020 programme. The capacity is limited to 30 participants, so register today to reserve your spot!
Don’t miss this opportunity to unlock the potential of scientific visualization with ParaView. Register now and take your first step towards mastering this essential skill set!

High-Performance Deep Learning
2024-04-16 09:00 - 2024-04-17 14:00
Would you like to learn the basics about Deep Learning?

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What?
On day 1 of this course you will:

Understand the fundamental theories of machine learning and the intuitions/ideas behind the algorithms
Work with a high-level machine learning API (Keras)
Explore hyperparameter space to improve a neural network
Understand the pitfalls of classic machine learning algorithms

On day 2 of this course you will learn:

How to set up your software environment
About the technical capabilities of modern day CPUs and GPUs
How to identify bottlenecks in your code

Who?
Everyone interested in getting familiar with machine learning at scale, from the beginning up to more advanced topics
Prerequisites

Basic knowledge on statistics
Basic knowledge on linear algebra
Basic knowledge on Python programming. Some experience with the use of Jupyter Notebooks is desirable, but not essential.

* Basic knowledge on parallel computing is helpful, but not required.

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Introduction to Supercomputing, part II
2024-04-15 09:00 - 14:00 | Eindhoven University of Technology, De Zaale 32, Eindhoven, Netherlands
If you need to perform many calculations, or analyses that are too big for your own system, clusters and supercomputers provide the computing power you need. In this course, you will learn to work with the national supercomputer Snellius.
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What will you learn in this course?
This course is a follow-up to the first introductory Supercomputing course, where you can take a deeper dive into the use of supercomputers with a special focus on efficiency and good practices and a very practical approach.
The format of this course includes the following modules:

Fundamentals of performance analysis. This introductory technical presentation introduces high-performance hybrid systems, abstractly covering the architecture and configuration of the system. Our aim is to enhance the understanding of HPC complexity before delving deeper into the importance of performance analysis models. Special attention is paid to the Roofline model.

Abstract Modelling hybrid supercomputers. Presenting an abstract modelling approach for hybrid supercomputers, condensing their complexity into three key parameters: peak performance, memory and network bandwidth.
Performance analysis. Explore performance analysis, starting with an overview of different models and going deeper into the specifics of the roofline model.
The roofline model. Describing the roofline model and presenting its practical application through clear explanations and demonstrations.

File systems. This practical session covers the proper use of file systems on HPC systems, especially on Snellius.
Slurm hybrid tasks. Slurm, a widely used job scheduler for high-performance computing (HPC) systems, has been introduced in earlier sections for a basic understanding. This module covers the specific resource allocation parameters for hybrid jobs with shared and distributed memory.

Nodes, cores and tasks. This segment covers the fundamental concepts of nodes, cores and tasks, and highlights their role within the context of HPC systems.
Bindings. The concept of bindings is explored, providing insight into how tasks are associated with specific resources, improving participants’ understanding of resource allocation mechanisms.
Hands on. We will run the vector optics kernel with multiple configurations using a set of scripts.

QCG pilot job. In some cases, users need to run a large number of lightweight cases. However, the nodes of supercomputers are too powerful and only allow relatively large partitions. For example, the smallest possible allocation on Snellius is 1/4 of a node: 32 cores and 64 GB. Job concurrency is a common strategy to efficiently launch multiple lightweight jobs on such large partitions.

Fundamentals of job concurrency. This segment discusses the basic principles underlying job concurrency. Job concurrency is a methodological approach that allows the simultaneous execution of multiple smaller jobs within a larger allocated partition. The goal is to optimise resource utilisation and improve efficiency in scenarios where lighter tasks are executed on nodes designed for heavier workloads.
Hands-on QCG PilotJob. This hands-on session provides participants with hands-on experience of the QCG Pilotjob framework. Participants will gain practical insights into the strategies and techniques of using job concurrency to launch and manage multiple lightweight jobs within the context of bulky node partitions.

Prerequisites
Participation in the course Introduction to Supercomputing, Part I
The language of instruction is English
Location
TU/e Eindhoven

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End-to-end Data Management for Data Supporters
2024-04-11 10:00 - 16:30 | SURF Amsterdam, Science Park 140, Amsterdam, 1098 XG, Netherlands
Do you want to know more about the tools and facilities for compute and data to better support researchers in Research Data Management (RDM)? Then please join us for this in-person training!
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Calling all data supporters!
We will be covering the whole research data lifecycle with discussions and demos of available tools – think of RDM platforms, compute and data infrastructure facilities, publication workflows, etc. Note that the focus is not on the technical details of the tools/facilities but on what these can do for your RDM needs! However, for those participants who do want to follow-along the practical steps in these demos, we are happy to facilitate this.
We are particularly interested in tackling some of the big challenges data stewards and other data professionals are facing in the realm of RDM. Expect lively discussion, opportunities to consider your own use cases, and a good lunch!
For whom?
Data supporters with non-technical and/or technical interests

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Training TRANSITS 2
2024-04-10 09:00 - 2024-04-12 17:00 | SURF Amsterdam, Science Park 140, Amsterdam, 1098 XG, Netherlands
Network monitoring, forensic analysis and more
TRANSITS II training is aimed at more experienced members of already functioning CSIRTs. We focus in this training on techniques for network monitoring and forensic analysis. We also provide a number of tools to improve (human) communication – which is so essential precisely in CSIRT work. Practical exercises are part of every topic covered.
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Attention to personal input
The TRANSITS training is a full three-day programme for a group of up to 18 participants. Much attention is paid to the participants’ own input and questions. Moreover, due to the cooperation with NCSC-NL, participants from all types of CSIRTs in the Netherlands are expected, which increases the learning effect. Training and lunches cost 500 euro for members of SURF and 1000 euro for non-members of SURF. The joint dinner is included.
For whom?
Are you a member of the local CSIRT at your institution? And do you already have some CSIRT work experience? Then you are welcome to participate in this training. The training is three-quarters (computer/network) technical in nature.
Programme
We start all training days at 09.00 with coffee and on days 1 and 2 we get to work from 09.30 to 17.30! We conclude the first 2 days with a communal dinner.
On day 3, we hand out certificates to all participants at the end of the day’s programme at 16.00 hrs.
Costs

For SURF members: 550 euro excluding VAT.
For non-SURF member institutions: 1,050 euro excl. vat.

Registration and cancellation

Registration is not optional; please read the cancellation policy for SURFacademy meetings.

NWO ICT.OPEN2024
2024-04-10 - 2024-04-11 | Jaarbeurs, Utrecht, Jaarbeursplein 6, Utrecht, 3521 AL
NWO ICT.OPEN brings scientists from all ICT research disciplines and industries together to learn, share ideas, and network. The conference will take place on 10 & 11 April 2024 at the Jaarbeurs, Utrecht.
Read moreDo you want to present your research results at NWO ICT.OPEN2024? Then check out the tracks and submit your abstract for a demo, oral and/or poster presentation.
The deadline for abstract submission is 16 January 2024.
Programme overview

Spring HPC School: Introduction to Advanced Computing
2024-04-08 09:00 - 2024-04-12 14:00 | Eindhoven University of Technology, De Zaale 32, Eindhoven, Netherlands
For whom?
This introductory course is aimed at first-time and novice users of high-performance computing facilities. Many researchers can benefit from using a such supercomputing facilities to speed up their research or enable them to solve bigger problems.
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What to expect?
Day 1 & 2
In the first two half-day sessions (primer course) you will learn how to use (remote) Linux machines, demystify the Linux terminal, upload & edit files, automating tasks etc. We will cover the basics of file version control using Git. In addition, we will talk about the “supercomputing staircase” and how you as a TU/e researcher can gain access to suitable computing facilities, both local & national. The knowledge in this course is also a prerequisite for other sessions in the Spring HPC School.
Day 3
The third day will be an introduction to spuercomputing with hands-on. If you need to perform many calculations, or analyses that are too big for your own system, clusters and supercomputers will provide the computing power you need. You will learn how to work with these large computing systems!
During this do you will:

understand what is high-performance computing (HPC)
learn basic details on clusters and supercomputers
do practical exercises on the national supercomputer Snellius effectively
apply the essential best practices on how to work effectively with large HPC systems

Day 4
Finally, the fourth day will be dedicated to cloud computing. Do you want to create and manage your own work environment and run powerful applications on it? SURF Research Cloud opens the door to cloud computing on different platforms. During this day, your workload runs on the SURF HPC Cloud platform in Amsterdam.
Prerequisites

Basic knowledge of Unix shell is useful.
Bring your own laptop.
A browser (Chrome or Firefox is good enough).
Experience with Linux commands helps, but is not a requirement.

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Introduction to SURF Research Cloud
2024-03-12 13:00 - 17:00 | Erasmus University Rotterdam, Burgemeester Oudlaan 50, Rotterdam, 3062PA, Netherlands
This training explains cloud computing in general. The accompanying hands-on approach introduces you to (some of) the many features of SURF Research Cloud. You will learn how to create and manage your own virtual computing environment(s). By the end, you will feel comfortable enough to install your own applications, and benefit from the power of cloud computing.
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For whom?
Anyone who wants to use a flexible and customized environment to run powerful applications.
The language of instruction is English.
Requirements
Bring your own laptop.
A browser (Chrome or Firefox is good enough).
Experience with Linux commands helps, but is not a requirement.

Sign up

Introduction to Supercomputing, part I
2024-03-12 09:00 - 12:30 | Online
What will you learn in this training?
In this training you will

understand what is high-performance computing (HPC)
learn basic details on clusters and supercomputers
do practical exercises on the national supercomputer Snellius effectively
apply the essential best practices on how to work effectively with large HPC systems

Sign up

For whom?
Anyone who wants to know how to perform very large computing tasks.
Basic knowledge of Unix shell is useful.

Sign up

Seminar: Hardware innovation technologies for IT in research
2024-03-05 11:00 - 17:00 | SURF Utrecht, Moreelsepark 48, Utrecht, 3511 EP, Netherlands
About the seminar
SURF, together with partners, is exploring new hardware technologies for IT in research. In this seminar, we present selected new technologies that accelerate scientific workflows, e.g. simulations, AI and massive data processing. We focus on the latest developments for processors, accelerators, storage and networking technologies that are available, or will soon be available. We hope this meeting will also strengthen our collaborations and identify opportunities for new collaborations.
Sign upPresenting yourself?
Do you have a new hardware technology of your own that you would like to briefly present at this seminar? You can! Please contact Raymond Oonk for this at raymond.oonk@surf.nl.
Programme
The seminar will take place in conference room 3.5.

10.30 – 11.00 hrs.
Walk-in and coffee at SURF

11.00 – 11.15 hrs.
Introduction: big data science driven technologies
Raymond Oonk (SURF)

11.15 – 11.40 hrs.
Evolution in CPUs, accelerators and storage media
Erik Kooistra (Nikhef)

11.40 – 12.05 hrs.
AI and Co-design of ICT systems
Chris Broekema

12.05 – 12.45 hrs.
Lunch at SURF

12.45 – 13.10 hrs.
Hardware for accelerating AI applications
Duncan Kampert (SURF)

13.10 – 13.35 hrs.
New GPU, FPGA and network technologies for radio astronomical instruments
John Romein (Astron)

13.35 – 14.00
Data logistics and network developments
Tristan Suerink (Nikhef)

14.00 – 14.25 hrs.
Developments in (inter)national network
Pieter de Boer (SURF)

14.25 – 14.50 hrs.
SURF experimental technologies platform
Bas van der Vlies (SURF)

14.50 – 15.20 hrs.
Coffee break at SURF

15.20 – 16.00 hrs.
Futuring session and opportunity for short presentations by participants
Raymond Oonk (SURF)

16.00 – 16.10 hrs.
Concluding
Raymond Oonk (SURF)

16.10 – 17.00
Drinks at SURF

For whom.
This seminar is intended for research IT experts supporting research groups and for researchers researching or already working with new hardware technologies.

Quantum Computing: From Research to Industry
2024-02-27 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
Join us for an exclusive webinar where we delve into the fascinating realm of Quantum Computing, in collaboration with NCC France and NCC Netherlands. This joint initiative brings together experts and enthusiasts to explore the latest advancements, challenges, and industry perspectives in quantum computing.
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What to Expect:

Introduction to Quantum Computing: Gain insights into the fundamentals of quantum computing, including logic gates, annealers, and analog computing.
Qaptiva: Quantum Computing Emulator: Discover an innovative quantum computing emulator developed by industry experts.
HPC-Quantum Infrastructures: Learn about the French Hybrid HPC Quantum Initiative (HQI) and its mission to provide free access to HPC-Quantum infrastructures for open research.
Handling Quantum Applications: Explore effective strategies for handling quantum applications at the user level.
Algorithm Design for Quantum Computers: Delve into the world of quantum algorithms and learn how to design algorithms tailored for quantum computers.
Building Quantum Hardware: Gain insights into the hardware side of quantum computing and explore the latest developments.

Program & Speakers:

Jean-Baptiste Latre
Olivier Hess
Félix Givois
David Maier
Victor Land
Daan Kuitenbrouwer

Hosted by:

Karim Azoum, Teratec Program Director, NCC France Director
Carlos Teijeiro Barjas, Advisor Supercomputing, SURF, NCC Netherlands

Registration: Secure your spot now by clicking here to register and receive the webinar link.
Can’t Make It? No worries! The webinar will be recorded and accessible for replay here.
Don’t miss this collaborative effort to explore the cutting-edge world of quantum computing and its transformative potential. Register now and embark on a journey towards quantum enlightenment!

Save the date: SURF Tech Trends Workshop 27 February 2024
2024-02-27 | SURF Utrecht, Moreelsepark 48, Utrecht, 3511 EP, Netherlands
The next Tech Trends workshop is scheduled for 27 February 2024. This time we will focus on developments around Brain Computer Interfaces (BCI), a system that allows brain signals to be measured, analysed, classified and converted into actions by a computer. Curious about how it relates to education and research? Keep an eye on the SURF agenda!

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Cluster computing for social scientists with R - CANCELLED
2024-02-16 09:00 - 17:00 | SURF Amsterdam, Science Park 140, Amsterdam, 1098 XG, Netherlands
CANCELLEDIn this course, you will learn the basics of supercomputing. The day starts with an introduction to supercomputer architecture, including a hands-on session focused on running jobs on a supercomputer.
The second half of the programme focuses on translating your R workflow from a GUI (Rstudio) workflow on your desktop to a scripting/batch environment on the supercomputer. Topics covered here include: efficient programming, parallel computing, and using the SLURM job manager to send your job/analysis to the supercomputer.
Sign upIn this course you will:

Do practical exercises to learn how to effectively use the Lisa national computing cluster and the national supercomputer, and how to complete your tasks with minimal effort in the shortest possible time.
Experience how to achieve high performance with R by using SURF’s supercomputing facilities.

Prerequisites:

Basic knowledge of Linux (Unix shell) is useful
Basic knowledge of R is useful

You must have:
A personal laptop with an up-to-date browser and a terminal emulator (Putty for users of the OSSC/CBS RA environment). Using the operating systems Linux and macOS is preferred but not mandatory. For Windows users, we recommend downloading MobaXterm (portable version) as a terminal emulator. If you are limited in your choice, Putty also works.
Acknowledgements
This course has been sponsored by the EuroCC project.

Workshop Linux Basics
2024-02-15 12:30 - 17:00 | Wageningen University & Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 4, Wageningen, 6708 PB, Netherlands
Linux Basics for HPC
Are you interested in using the High Performance Computing Cluster (HPC) but lack the basic Linux knowledge? Join the course on the basics of Linux for working on the HPC clusters. You will learn the Linux commands and skills needed to create repetitive tasks.

Location
Wageningen University & Research – Forum B0432
Costs

For WUR HPC group members: free
For externals: 250 euro

Registration and cancellation

Registration is mandatory via email at: it-workshops@wur.nl

Workshop Linux grondbeginselen
2024-02-15 12:30 - 17:00 | Wageningen University & Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 4, Wageningen, 6708 PB, Netherlands
Linux voor HPC
Ben je geïnteresseerd in het gebruik van het High Performance Computing Cluster (HPC) maar beschik je niet over de basiskennis van Linux? Volg de cursus over de basisbeginselen van Linux voor het werken op HPC-clusters. Je leert de Linux-commando’s en vaardigheden die nodig zijn om repetitieve taken te maken.

Locatie
Wageningen Universiteit & Research – Forum B0432
Kosten

Voor WUR HPC-groepsleden: gratis
Voor externen: 250 euro

Registratie en annulering

Inschrijven is verplicht via e-mail op: it-workshops@wur.nl

Quantum Internet Hackathon 2024
2024-02-15 - 2024-02-16 | TU Delft Library, Prometheusplein 1, Delft, Netherlands
Are you ready to hack the future of the quantum internet? Participants gather in local teams and are brought together virtually to tackle challenges, share projects, discuss progress and give feedback. Sign up for this pan-European hackathon!
Read moreRegister for this pan-European quantum hackathon before February 12! SURF is a partner in the organisation. More information about the programme and susbscription procedure via the Quantum Internet Alliance website.

Register via the Quantum Internet Alliance

Signing up through the Quantum Internet Alliance

Introduction to Supercomputing, part I
2024-02-13 09:00 - 12:30 | Online
What will you learn in this training?
In this training you will:
• understand what is high-performance computing (HPC)
• learn basic details on clusters and supercomputers
• do practical exercises on the national supercomputer Snellius effectively
• apply the essential best practices on how to work effectively with large HPC systems
Sign upFor whom?

Anyone who wants to know how to perform very large computing tasks.
Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of Unix shell is useful.
Language
This webinar will be in English

Sign up

Essentials 4 Data Support
2024-02-08 - 2024-03-21 | DANS, Anna van Saksenlaan 51, Den Haag, Zuid-Holland, 2593 HW, Netherlands
About the course
This course teaches data supporters basic knowledge and skills (essentials) to take the first steps in supporting researchers in storing, managing, archiving and sharing research data. After the course, you will have an overview of the different phases of scientific research data. For each phase, you will get tools to advise researchers on adding value to their research data.
Sign up

Course structure
Besides acquiring knowledge, practising and sharing knowledge are central. You can follow the course in two ways:

Online only (free of charge)
Full course: online + meetings + certificate (895 euro excl. VAT)

Time investment
Besides attending two course days, the average online study load is four to six hours per week (fifty hours in total).
For whom
The course is aimed at anyone who wants to support researchers in storing, managing, archiving and sharing research data: a data supporter. For example, (data) librarians, IT staff and researchers with data management tasks.
Organisation
Research Data Netherlands (RDNL) is a partnership for sustainable data archiving. Parties involved:

4TU.ResearchData
Data Archiving and Networked Services (DANS)
Dutch Techcentre for Life Sciences (DTL)
SURF

More information and registration
Visit the Research Data Netherlands site for more information on the full programme and how to register.

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Introduction of SANE (Secure Analysis Environment)
2024-02-06 14:00 - 15:00 | Online
Are you a researcher interested in utilising sensitive data and exploring opportunities for secure data analysis? Then don’t miss this opportunity to delve into the future of secure data analytics with SANE.

Starting January 2024, SANE will be available for use by data providers and researchers. All researchers from various fields and backgrounds are welcome to join the webinar.

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Agenda:

14.00-14.10 – Introduction to SANE by Lucas van der Meer (CTO, ODISSEI) and Annette Langedijk (Research Partnership Lead, SURF)
14.10-14.30 – Live demonstration of SANE by Ahmad Hesam (Project Manager, SURF) and Martin Brandt (Solution Architect, SURF)
14.30-14.45 – Presentation of use cases making sensitive data available via SANE, along with insights into working with SANE
14.45 – 15.00 – Q&A Session

About SANE
SANE, a virtual environment developed by SURF, CLARIAH, and ODISSEI, enables researchers to analyse sensitive data while allowing data providers to maintain full control. The environment runs on the ISO 27001 certified SURF Research Cloud platform and has been thoroughly tested with an independent penetration test.
Starting January 2024, it will be available for use by data providers and researchers, with ongoing functionality enhancements throughout 2024. More information about SANE will be shared as soon as available.
About the Collaborators:
SURF: A cooperative of Dutch education and research institutions dedicated to enhancing digital services and fostering knowledge sharing through innovation.
CLARIAH: A distributed research infrastructure for the humanities and social sciences, providing access to extensive digital data collections and user-friendly applications.
ODISSEI: The national research infrastructure for the social sciences in the Netherlands, facilitating groundbreaking research through data, expertise, and resources.

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Introduction to Deep Learning
2024-01-29 09:00 - 13:00 | UvA campus (Science Park) A1.16, Amsterdam, 1012 WP, Netherlands
You will learn how deep neural networks work and how they are optimised. During our hands-on sessions, you will get the chance to work on our high-performance systems and train neural networks to solve an image classification problem. We cover different neural network architectures: from a basic fully connected network, to a convolutional neural network and variational auto-encoders (time permitting).
The language of instruction is English.
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What will you learn in this course?

Understand how a neuron and neural network work
Understand how a neural network is trained
Investigate the effect of hyperparameters on the performance of neural networks
Working with a high-level machine learning API (Keras)

For whom.
Anyone who is interested in deep learning, but has no (or little) current experience & knowledge.
Prerequisites

Python
Basic linear algebra
Basic statistics

Topics

Neural network: basic principles

How does a neuron work?
Fully connected networks
Training/optimising a neural network

Convolutional neural networks (CNNs)
(Variational) Auto-encoders

This training is a collaboration between SURF and the UvA, sponsored by EuroCC.

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Supercomputing Info Day
2024-01-24 10:00 - 12:30 | Online
Do you know how supercomputing can benefit your company?
Sign up

Our primary aim is to raise awareness about supercomputing and the offerings of our respective NCCs for the industry. Through this event, we intend to showcase successful HPC use cases that have significantly benefited various companies in the different countries.
COLLABORATIVE INFO DAY :
NCC Slovenia, NCC Netherlands, NCC Montenegro, NCC Cyprus, NCC Spain

AGENDA
On-line event

Training TRANSITS 1
2024-01-24 09:00 - 2024-01-26 17:00 | SURF Utrecht, Moreelsepark 48, Utrecht, 3511 EP, Netherlands
Responding to current situation
The TRANSITS 1 course is the basic and among others developed by SURF in a European context for CSIRTs, and is the basic training. It dates from 2001 and has been in great demand worldwide ever since. In the process, the teaching material has been constantly updated.
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Getting started with Transits 1
The following components are covered:

organisational aspects
operational aspects
technical background
legal and regulatory aspects

Attention to own input
The TRANSITS training is a full 3-day programme for 2 groups of up to 14 participants each. This gives you room for a lot of personal input and you can ask all your questions. Thanks to the cooperation with NCSC-NL, you will meet participants from all types of CSIRTs in the Netherlands; so you will get even more out of the training.
Lunch is included – you pay for any overnight stay yourself.
For whom?
Are you (or will you be) a member of the local CSIRT within your own institution? Then you are very welcome to participate. In addition, the training is excellent for security officers and ICT managers who want to know what a CSIRT entails. If you participate, we expect you to have basic knowledge of internet technology and security.

Programme
We start all training days at 9am with coffee. On days 1 and 2, we will work from 9.30 to 17.30! We conclude day 1 with a communal dinner. On day 3, we hand out certificates to all participants at the end of the day’s programme, at 16.00.

Cost
Cost for this training course:

SURF members: 350 euro (excluding VAT)
Non-members of SURF: 1,050 euro (excluding VAT)

Registration and cancellation

Registration is not optional; please read the cancellation conditions for SURFacademy meetings.

Big Data Processing in Astronomy and Earth Observation: Synergies & Shared Challenges
2024-01-23 10:00 - 17:00 | SURF Utrecht, Moreelsepark 48, Utrecht, 3511 EP, Netherlands
Do you engage with Big Data in your research in Astronomy or Earth Observation? Or do you want to learn about innovative projects in these domains with a strong data processing component? Then join this seminar, organised by SURF and NSO, bringing together the Astronomy and Earth Observation communities to discuss shared challenges and best practices.
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Big (data) challenges
The challenges related to Big Data are similar for Astronomy & Earth Observation research. Both domains deal with ever-growing amounts of data and increasing complexity of data. Hence, mission and instrument teams are expected to deliver science/analysis-ready data products as it is not feasible anymore for the end-users to handle the pre-processing themselves.
Another effect of the increased data volumes and complexity is the migration of scientific workflows from desktops to Virtual Research Environments or HPC clusters. New AI algorithms and other optimizations are needed to plough through the huge datasets. And how is Big Data managed and shared in the context of the Open Science revolution?
In this seminar, we bring together two research communities with similar challenges, and learn how innovative Big Data projects in Astronomy and Earth Observation deal with:

data processing and analysis: how to get from raw data to science/analysis-ready data products and scientific workflows?
data storage and management: how to manage distributed and heterogenous datasets and storage systems following Open Science and FAIR principles?
emerging technologies: how to use AI, Quantum Computing, HPC, exascale computing to tackle Big Data challenges?

Innovative projects and inspiring speakers

Gijs Nelemans (RU) – LISA
John Swinbank (ASTRON) – Square Kilometer Array
Edwin Valentijn (RUG) – Euclid NL Data Center
Anthony Brown (UL) – Gaia
Steven Bloemen (RU) – BlackGEM
Natalie Danezi (SURF) – The National Research IT Infrastructure
Ad Stoffelen (KNMI) – EUMETSAT Satellite Application Facilities
Jochen Landgraf (SRON) – TROPOMI
Jaap Langemeijer (Deltares) – Global Water Watch
Pier Siebesma (TUD/KNMI) – Ruisdael Observatory
Meiert Grootes (eScience center) – Remote Sensing Deployable Analysis Environment

Organisation Committee

Haili Hu (SURF)
Raymond Oonk (SURF)
Jolien Diekema (NSO)
Raymond Sluiter (NSO)

For whom
Researchers, IT support and Project Managers that are active in Astronomy or Earth Observation.

Introduction SURF Research Cloud
2024-01-22 09:00 - 13:00 | UvA campus (Science Park) A1.16, Amsterdam, 1012 WP, Netherlands
This training course explains cloud computing in general. The accompanying hands-on approach introduces you to (some of) the many possibilities of SURF Research Cloud. You will learn how to create and manage your own virtual computing environment(s). At the end, you will feel comfortable enough to install your own applications, and benefit from the power of cloud computing.
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For whom?
Anyone who wants to use a flexible and customised environment to run powerful applications. It is also a useful kickstarter for current HPC Cloud users.
The working language is English.
Requirements

A browser (Chrome or Firefox is good enough)
Experience with Linux commands helps, but is not a requirement.

This training is a collaboration between SURF and the UvA, sponsored by EuroCC.
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Introduction training supercomputing part II
2024-01-15 13:30 - 17:00 | SURF Amsterdam, Science Park 140, Amsterdam, 1098 XG, Netherlands
What will you learn in this course?
This course is a follow-up to the first introductory Supercomputing course, where you can take a deeper dive into the use of supercomputers with a special focus on efficiency and good practices and a very practical approach.
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The format of this course includes the following modules:

Fundamentals of performance analysis. This introductory technical presentation introduces high-performance hybrid systems, abstractly covering the architecture and configuration of the system. Our aim is to enhance the understanding of HPC complexity before delving deeper into the importance of performance analysis models. Special attention is paid to the Roofline model.

Abstract Modelling hybrid supercomputers. Presenting an abstract modelling approach for hybrid supercomputers, condensing their complexity into three key parameters: peak performance, memory and network bandwidth.
Performance analysis. Explore performance analysis, starting with an overview of different models and going deeper into the specifics of the roofline model.
The roofline model. Describing the roofline model and presenting its practical application through clear explanations and demonstrations.

File systems. This practical session covers the proper use of file systems on HPC systems, especially on Snellius.
Slurm hybrid tasks. Slurm, a widely used job scheduler for high-performance computing (HPC) systems, has been introduced in earlier sections for a basic understanding. This module covers the specific resource allocation parameters for hybrid jobs with shared and distributed memory.

Nodes, cores and tasks. This segment covers the fundamental concepts of nodes, cores and tasks, and highlights their role within the context of HPC systems.
Bindings. The concept of bindings is explored, providing insight into how tasks are associated with specific resources, improving participants’ understanding of resource allocation mechanisms.
Hands on. We will run the vector optics kernel with multiple configurations using a set of scripts.

QCG pilot job. In some cases, users need to run a large number of lightweight cases. However, the nodes of supercomputers are too powerful and only allow relatively large partitions. For example, the smallest possible allocation on Snellius is 1/4 of a node: 32 cores and 64 GB. Job concurrency is a common strategy for efficiently launching multiple lightweight jobs on such large partitions.

Fundamentals of job concurrency. This segment discusses the basic principles underlying job concurrency. Job concurrency is a methodological approach that enables the simultaneous execution of multiple smaller jobs within a larger allocated partition. The goal is to optimise resource utilisation and improve efficiency in scenarios where lighter tasks are executed on nodes designed for heavier workloads.
Hands-on QCG PilotJob. This hands-on session provides participants with hands-on experience of the QCG Pilotjob framework. Participants will gain practical insights into the strategies and techniques of using job concurrency to launch and manage multiple lightweight jobs within the context of bulky node partitions.

Prerequisites
Participation in the course Introduction to Supercomputing, Part I
The language of instruction is English
Location
This training course takes place at the VU Campus
De Boelelaan 1081, Amsterdam – Room WN-C203/C255
View the floor plan here

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Introduction training supercomputing part I
2024-01-15 09:00 - 13:00 | SURF Amsterdam, Science Park 140, Amsterdam, 1098 XG, Netherlands
What will you learn in this training?
In this training you will do practical exercises to learn how to use the national supercomputer Snellius effectively and how to complete your tasks with minimal effort in the shortest possible time.
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For whom.
Anyone who wants to know how to perform huge computing tasks.
The language of instruction is English.
Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of Unix shell is useful.

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Introduction to Supercomputing
2023-12-13 09:00 - 12:30 | Online
What will you learn in this training?
In this training you will do practical exercises to learn how to use the national supercomputer Snellius effectively and how to complete your tasks with minimal effort in the shortest possible time.
Sign upFor whom
Anyone who wants to know how to perform huge computing tasks.The language of instruction is English.
Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of Unix shell is useful.

Advanced Computing User Day
2023-12-07 09:30 - 17:00 | Royal Tropical Institute Amsterdam, Mauritskade 64, Amsterdam, 1092 AD, Netherlands
Reserve December 7 in your calendar for the Advanced Computing User Day. A day with best practices, the latest developments in HPC and the place where you can meet other HPC users and get in touch with experts from different sectors such as Physics and Astronomy; Biology and Bioinformatics; Climate and Earth Sciences to exchange knowledge.
Sign Up*participation is free of charge
What to expect?

Gain insights into the latest advancements, trends, and best practices in advanced computing technology, applications, and methodologies to stay ahead in your field
Learn and get inspired by skilled speakers and other peers
Case studies and best practices from other researchers and industry professionals
Connect with other advanced computing communities, peers and people from SURF and EuroCC Netherlands
Inside tips & tricks for the most efficient use of the SURF HPC systems
Get updated and share your thoughts about the latest state of the HPC services of SURF and EuroCC
Access to resources: gather information about available resources, grants, and funding opportunities that can support your HPC-related projects or initiatives

Preliminary Program

Keynote Henne Holstege
AnnounceTech Highlights
Parallel sessions:
Track 1 Morning & Afternoon: The power of High-Performance Computing
Track 2 Morning & Afternoon: Exploring Data Processing and Management & Best Practice
Track 3: Harnessing High-Performance Computing in AI-Enhanced Scientific Exploration
Track 4: Open Access in European Advanced Computing
Track 5 Morning & Afternoon: Navigating Tomorrow: Exploring Future Computing Paradigms
Panel Discussion: “The future of advanced computing and data processing – what do we need most?”
Keynote Justin Halsall

Full programFor whom?

Researchers at academia who use SURF services for HPC
Researchers who use advanced computing for their research
Industry professionals at start-ups or sme’s who use advanced computing
Professionals at public administrations

Location
We would be happy to welcome you on the 7th of December at one of the Amsterdam’s national heritage sites and icons: The Royal Tropical Institute.
Advanced Computing User Day 2023 is an initiative of SURF and EuroCC Netherlands.
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FIRE: FPGA Innovation Research Exchange
2023-12-06 09:45 - 17:00 | SURF Utrecht, Moreelsepark 48, Utrecht, 3511 EP, Netherlands
You are most welcome!
This is the third of a series of seminars bringing together FPGA practitioners, computer science and engineering experts, scientific computing experts, application owners and HPC providers. We will attempt to build a community through which we discuss and evaluate the need and usability of FPGAs in HPC and Scientific Computing.
The series is part of the FIRE symposia and is jointly organised by SURF and the Hardware Accelleration Network NL.
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Programme
9:45-10:15 – Opening with coffee
10:15-10:30 – Introduction and updates
10:30-11:00 – HWACC acceleration session 1
Speaker: Vincent Hindriksen (Stream HPC) – A brief history of accelerator tensions
11:00-11:30 – HWACC acceleration session 2
Speaker: Amirreza Yousefzadeh (IMEC) – Accelerator design for RISC-V-based digital neuromorphic processors, design trade-offs and challenges
11:30-12:00 – HWACC accelerator session 3
Speaker: Roy Bulter (Thales) – GPU-direct between FPGA and GPU
12:00-12:30 – HWACC acceleration session 4
Speaker: Tiziano De Matteis (Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam) – DaCe: data centric parallel programming for heterogeneous platforms
12:30-13:30 – Lunch
13:30-14:30 – Keynote
Speaker: Christos-Savvas Bouganis (Imperial College London) – Deep Neural Networks in the Embedded Space: Opportunities and Challenges
14:30-15:00 – Lightning Talks
Different speakers and topics
15:00-15:30 – Coffee Break
15:30-16:00 – FIRE talks session 1
Speaker: Federico Corradi (Tu/e) – Implementing spiking neural networks on FPGA for edge AI applications
16:00-16:30 – FIRE talks session 2
Speaker: Maurice Daverveldt (Optiver) – FPGA usage for low latency trading
16:30-17:00 – FIRE talks session 3
Speaker: Jeremie Vandenplas (Wageningen University and Research) – How can FPGAs contribute to sustainable animal breeding?
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You can register here, until the event is sold out!
Location
The event will take place at the SURF office in Utrecht, Moreelsepark 48, 3511 EP Utrecht.
