First Steps for External Researchers

Researchers at German state-recognized universities work with computer-aided methods in their fields of research. For example, experiments can be replaced by simulations, predictions can be calculated, large amounts of data can be analyzed and innovative and secure artificial intelligence methods can be developed.
Computers, as we use them every day, quickly reach their limits. What normal computers need years to do, a high-performance computer only needs a few hours for parallel processing.

Please Note

If you are a member of Forschungszentrum Jülich, please follow the guide for Students & Members of RWTH.

1. Apply for Computing Time

Researchers can therefore apply for various computing time quotas on our HPC system. To do so, they must describe the scientific project in an application. If this is approved following an approval procedure, the computing time is made available free of charge. Applications are submitted at national level (Tier 2) via NHR4CES. On the NHR4CES website you will find a step-by-step guide explaining how to apply.

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Please Note

Researchers from NRW with computing time requirements in the engineering sciences also have the opportunity to apply directly to RWTH Aachen University for small computing time projects at local level. These fall under the category RWTH Small and contain <0.36 Mio.Core Hours.

2. HPC Account

After successful project assessment, applicants receive an account for the Identity Management of the RWTH Aachen via a coupon procedure. This account must then be used to register in the RWTH RegApp in order to obtain an HPC account. With the HPC account, other external persons can then be independently invited to work on the project on the HPC system.

A detailed explanation of how to create an HPC account can be found on our documentation portal IT Center Help.

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3. How to Connect to the HPC Cluster

To connect to the HPC Cluster, there are different login nodes and different methods for the connection.

We have compiled a list of these and what you need to bear in mind when logging in on IT Center Help.

Illustration of a computer connecting to a cluster Copyright: © RWTH Aachen

4. Support

Do you need our help with your project application, don't know which project is right for you or need support with the performance analysis and optimization of simulation applications, for example? Feel free to contact the IT ServiceDesk or visit our monthly HPC consultation hour.

Illustration of a person who gives support Copyright: © RWTH Aachen