The N8 CIR supercomputer, Bede, has been extended for an additional year, with the cost being underwritten by the N8 Universities. This will maintain the operation of Bede until March 2026 and allow existing users to continue to access Bede without disruption, enabling researchers to complete ongoing projects and continue to utilise this critical resource. As a tier-2 supercomputer facility, Bede plays a crucial role in supporting the UK’s research community. Jointly funded by EPSRC and N8, and operated by N8 CIR, Bede serves as an essential resource for researchers, research support professionals, and universities, facilitating advancements in fields such as AI, simulation, and more.
We are excited to see Bede extended for another year, enabling access to cutting-edge capabilities like our Grace Hoppers. Bede will continue to accelerate a broad range of research in the north and nationally, enabling AI and simulation while fostering the development of future digital technology professionals through the N8 CIR Summer Internship Scheme. Through this commitment from the N8 Universities, Bede will continue to play a key role in shaping the future of innovation and advancing the UK’s technological landscape.
The details and timing of future HPC funding calls and the long-term future of tier-2 supercomputing facilities remain uncertain. We hope the extension of funding through 2026 provides vital stability for our HPC community during this period of transition. We are continuing to engage with EPSRC and UKRI to ensure that the value of Bede and similar facilities is fully recognised in future planning.