Computer System, Cluster and Networking Summer Institute

• 2013 Summer Institute Flyer (pdf)
• How to Apply
• Photos From the 2007 Cluster and Network Management Summer Institute
• Photos From the 2008 Cluster and Network Management Summer Institute
• Photos From the 2009 Cluster and Network Management Summer Institute
• Photos From the 2010 Cluster and Network Management Summer Institute
• Photos From the 2011 Cluster and Network Management Summer Institute
• Photos From the 2012 Cluster and Network Management Summer Institute
• Presentation on Summer Institute Goals and Philosophy (pdf)

Purpose

The Computer System, Cluster, and Networking Summer Institute (CSCNSI) is a focused technical enrichment program targeting third-year college undergraduate students currently engaged in a computer science, computer engineering, or similar major. The program emphasizes practical skill development in setting up, configuring, administering, testing, monitoring, and scheduling computer systems, supercomputer clusters, and computer networks through a variety of activities including hands-on technical training, lectures, professional development seminars, and tours of LANL facilities.

Students work in small project teams to execute real-world projects on computer clusters that they assemble and configure. A university instructor provides class instruction, and LANL subject matter experts mentor team projects. Students develop written and oral communications skills through critiqued presentations and present their work at a technical poster session at the conclusion of the Summer Institute. The CSCNSI is also an innovative, proactive approach to making the students aware of career possibilities within the Laboratory.

Description

The Information Science and Technology Institutes (ISTI) and the New Mexico Consortium (NMC) are soliciting undergraduate student applicants for the 2011 Summer Institute. During the nine-week Institute, students will receive technical training/lectures, professional development seminars, and laboratory experience with LANL staff and an experienced university instructor. A hands-on computer system laboratory/ machine room fully populated with unassembled computer nodes, networking equipment, and assorted equipment, cables, and supplies are provided. Additionally, practical skill development in setting up, configuring, administering, testing, monitoring, and scheduling will be emphasized and facilitated. Technical breadth will be developed via exposure to a variety of key topics, technologies, and problems of interest through participation in tutorials, seminars, and facility tours prepared by the university instructor, LANL mentors, computer professionals, and scientists. During the Institute, students will work in small project teams and will present their work in a technical forum. A University faculty instructor and LANL mentors will be available as resources throughout the summer.

Students

This highly-selective program is designed for third year (i.e., Junior) undergraduate students, although in some cases, Senior applicants may be considered. Attempts will be made to identify high quality students from diverse backgrounds. Acceptance into the program will be based on academic record (3.0 GPA minimum), interest and goal statement, and a letter of recommendation. As a general guideline, students should have sufficient academic achievement to make them eligible graduate school candidates upon completion of their undergraduate program. CS and EE/CE students from US universities will be considered. This program is limited to US citizens. More application information is available here.

Duration and Location

The institute program will last 9 weeks from early June to early August will be held at the New Mexico Consortium (NMC) in Los Alamos, NM.

Instructor

A New Mexico Consortium instructor will conduct lectures along with several guest lecturers from the Laboratory staff.