MRI: Acquisition of a Beowulf Cluster for Research and Education in the Computational Sciences

Duquesne University, Pittsburgh PA

Investigators

Abstract

With support from the Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) Program, the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Duquesne University will acquire a Beowulf cluster. This equipment will enhance research in a number of areas including a) the theoretical prediction and ultimate synthesis of small nonprotein agents that control gene expression through site-specific binding and induced bending of DNA; b) development of new materials in nanotechnology; and c) development of a solution to carbon dioxide sequestration. A cluster of fast, modern computer workstations is vital to serving the computing needs of active research departments. Such a "computer network" also serves as a development environment for new theoretical codes and algorithms, provides state-of-the-art graphics and visualization facilities, and supports research in state-of-the-art applications of parallel processing. These studies will have a significant impact in a wide number of areas, including biochemistry, materials science and environmental chemistry.