eResearch Launched at Monash University named Research Cloud Monash (R@CMon)

Monash University Research
Cloud Monash (R@CMon)

A groundbreaking national computing cloud, created exclusively for researchers, has been extended with a new node at Monash University, creating a world-first, multi-institutional computing federation.

It is envisioned that the National eResearch Collaboration Tools and Resources (NeCTAR) Research Cloud project will incorporate eight nodes throughout Australia, spanning universities and research institutions. Already available nationally through its Victorian nodes, the cloud provides unprecedented opportunities for collaboration and tailored computing infrastructure.

Nodes are currently under construction in Western Australia, Tasmania, South Australia, Queensland and the ACT.

Deputy Director of the Monash eResearch Centre, Steve Quenette said the NeCTAR Research Cloud demonstrates Australian leadership on the world stage.

“The research cloud is unique in that it is common infrastructure across state and institutional boundaries. NeCTAR has created an environment where nodes, whether they are institutions or consortiums have business reasons to participate. And the benefits are realised by the researcher – an Australian researcher can collaborate on a common platform lowering the barriers to computing facilities and accelerating innovations and discoveries,” Mr Quenette said.

“A federation of nodes augments the cloud concept with the capabilities embedded in the precincts. For example, in our case, pre-mixed software such as the Characterisation Virtual Laboratory provide strong integration between instruments such as the Australian Synchrotron, high performance computing and tools.”

Known as Research @ Cloud Monash (R@CMon), the Monash node allows researchers to build their own computers in the cloud by putting together software and other capabilities like digital Lego pieces to meet their needs. These bespoke tool chains can be shared and accessed from anywhere through a standard computer.

Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research and Research Infrastructure), Professor Ian Smith said the new facility, would accelerate innovation in our precincts.

“R@CMon is world-class infrastructure with a twist. It is seamlessly part of the broader Australian research community but is also intimately tied to our precinct’s platforms and instruments. It will underpin new scientific methods across disciplines, and is a place to present and share what we know and do well,” Professor Smith said.

NeCTAR is funded by the Australian Government, through the Education Investment Fund, and by partner universities and collaborators.