Researchers struggling with insufficient computing power or grappling with security compliance for sensitive data may find solutions at Clemson University, where significant investments are being made to enhance high-performance computing (HPC) capabilities for cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Palmetto Cluster Transformation: $1 Million AI Computing Engine
Recognizing computational power as the foundation of research innovation, Clemson University has committed over $1 million to upgrade its flagship HPC system, the Palmetto cluster. The centerpiece of this transformation is the addition of 40 H100 80G GPUs , dramatically accelerating AI and machine learning workloads.
This enhancement represents a quantum leap in processing capability, enabling researchers to complete simulations and analyses in hours or minutes that previously required days or weeks. The university has further optimized performance by implementing a high-speed Infiniband network, creating seamless data pathways between nodes to maximize GPU efficiency.
Materials science, chemistry, and bioinformatics researchers stand to benefit particularly from these upgrades. The enhanced computing power will facilitate faster development of new materials, optimization of chemical processes, and analysis of complex biological data.
ReDCAT Initiative: Bridging Researchers and HPC Resources
Complementing its hardware investments, Clemson has established the Research and Data Computing Advisory Team (ReDCAT), a faculty-led group designed to improve communication between researchers and HPC resource administrators. This initiative ensures faculty needs and concerns directly inform the development and operation of HPC systems.
The interdisciplinary ReDCAT leadership for 2024-2025 includes representatives from engineering, computer science, biology, chemistry, and other fields. This diverse composition enables comprehensive understanding of varied research requirements across academic disciplines.
Future ReDCAT activities will include regular meetings to gather faculty feedback, skill-building workshops, and collaborative projects addressing technical challenges in HPC utilization.
Granite Environment: Secure Platform for Sensitive Data
Addressing growing concerns about research involving controlled unclassified information (CUI) and protected health information (PHI), Clemson has developed the Granite environment —a specialized HPC solution meeting stringent NIST 800-171 (NIH) compliance standards.
Granite incorporates multiple security measures including data encryption, access controls, and comprehensive auditing capabilities. The environment adheres to HIPAA, GDPR, and other regulatory frameworks, providing researchers with confidence when working with sensitive datasets.
This specialized infrastructure positions Clemson to support advanced research projects requiring the highest levels of data security and regulatory compliance.
Strategic Vision: Clemson Elevate Program
These HPC advancements align with the university's broader Clemson Elevate initiative to enhance research capabilities and academic reputation. The integrated approach—combining cutting-edge hardware, user-focused governance, and specialized secure environments—creates a comprehensive research computing ecosystem.
An online town hall meeting scheduled for April 2025 will provide updates on these initiatives, including operational changes, maintenance schedules, new computing nodes, and leadership transitions within the HPC program.