Enabling the Next-Generation of Computational Physicists and Engineers

Project Information

ENGAGE

Grant agreement ID: 101034267

DOI

10.3030/101034267

EC signature date 22 April 2021

Start date 1 January 2022

End date 31 December 2027

Funded under

• EXCELLENT SCIENCE - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions

Total cost

€ 3 362 880,00

EU contribution

€ 1 681 440,00

Coordinated by

THE CYPRUS INSTITUTE
Cyprus

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - ENGAGE (Enabling the Next-Generation of Computational Physicists and Engineers)

Reporting period: 2022-01-01 to 2023-12-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

The project “Enabling the next generation of computational physicists and engineers” (ENGAGE) is an interdisciplinary, intersectoral and multi-institutional project. It provides advanced training to a total of 20 doctoral students in the fields of Computational High Energy Physics, Multiscale Systems and Synchrotron Light Applications. ENGAGE considers the rapid advancements in high-performance computing, data science methodologies like machine and deep learning, and the emerging field of quantum computing, to revolutionize the landscape of research across various disciplines. If harnessed effectively, these technologies present significant opportunities for scientific breakthroughs in fields such as physics, engineering, material and biological sciences, with the potential for substantial societal impact. However, to fully capitalize on these emerging technological, there is a pressing need for a new generation of scientists and engineers. This cohort should possess a comprehensive understanding of computer technologies, modeling, algorithms, and, crucially, the ability to apply these tools to address challenges in science and engineering effectively. Furthermore, the program places particular emphasis on training and education of the doctoral students to effectively present their results and engage in scientific discussions with researchers from diverse thematic domains.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

ENGAGE successfully completed the recruitment of the doctoral students over a two-year period. Fourteen students commenced their studies between 2022 and 2023, and an additional five students are expected to complete their recruitment at their host institutes in 2024. In the summer of 2023, ENGAGE organized two two-week workshops focusing on High-Performance Computing and Data Sciences, alongside a two-day workshop on Transferable Skills and Open Science. Furthermore, the program offered online training to doctoral students, including short courses on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and communication skills.

All doctoral students have successfully completed their personal development plans. Noteworthy is the fact that, despite being in the first or second year of their studies (excluding those who began in the second half of 2023), all students have actively participated in international conferences, workshops, or outreach activities. A particular emphasis has been placed on the students' research output, resulting in four scientific publications (3 published and one pending publication). Additionally, one fellow was awarded with an international poster award at a conference, and another fellow has been selected to present at the "Science is Wonderful" science fair scheduled for April 2024 in Brussels.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

ENGAGE brings together experts proficient in both computational and data aspects, along with specialized knowledge in specific scientific fields, which is a unique and valuable combination. This exposure has provided the doctoral students with a distinct competitive advantage leading to the development of novel data science methodologies. The incorporation of machine and deep learning in these domains is groundbreaking, and this project has empowered the fellows to explore and master these transformative methodologies. Despite being in the initial or intermediate stages of their doctoral studies, three doctoral students have successfully published their research outputs, resulting in four publications (three published and one pending publication). Expertise in High-Performance Computing technologies and data sciences are skills that are highly sought after in industry. Exposure to state-of-the-art computational facilities provides to the doctoral students with significant expertise in both simulation and computing, positioning them to lead future developments and spearhead industrial initiatives. Training in designing algorithms tailored for new computer architectures and managing large datasets imparts invaluable know-how, addressing the needs of a broad spectrum of potential employers.

ENGAGE's doctoral students actively participated in science fairs and national exhibitions, connecting directly with the general public explaining their research results, and expanding their networks. As the doctoral students approach the final one or two years of their studies, is anticipated to have many more research outputs leading to publications and more opportunities to present at international conferences. They will continue their involvement in public and outreach events, such as the "Science is Wonderful" event in Brussels, and gain additional industrial experience through secondments. The project will continue to offer training opportunities, including a two-weeks workshop in May 2024 on the emerging field of quantum computing and a final conference where all doctoral students can showcase the results achieved during their studies. Furthermore, the online training component will persist, providing the doctoral students the chance to enhance their knowledge across various subjects, including proposal writing, Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), communication skills, public engagement, outreach to the general public, and inclusivity and diversity.

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