At the Intersection of AI and High-Performance Computing: Exploring the NAIRR Pilot User Experience
Researchers across disciplines rely on high-performance computing (HPC) and AI resources, yet many face significant barriers to effective utilization. Challenges include complex job scheduling, software dependencies, and a lack of institutional support. The National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource (NAIRR) Plot launched in 2024 aims to democratize access to AI resources, but early evaluations highlight user challenges. The NAIRR User Experience Working Group (UEWG) has collected information on these challenges and is making recommendations on effective solutions. A survey of NAIRR users conducted by the UEWG revealed that many researchers, educators, and students needed additional guidance, were unaware of available resources, struggled with initial setup, or preferred to develop locally before scaling up. This presentation will provide an introduction to NAIRR Pilot offerings, current activities, and an opportunity to discuss key hurdles for users at the intersection of HPC and AI, such as computational integration, user expectations, and effective onboarding strategies. By exploring best practices in user support and training, we aim to enhance accessibility and ensure that researchers, educators, and students maximize computational resources for scientific discovery.
Presenters
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Shelley Knuth
Assistant Vice Chancellor for Research Computing,
University of Colorado Boulder
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Alana Romanella
Deputy Director,
University of Colorado Boulder
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Nitin Sukhija
Director,
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania