Applying for Access¶
BriCS does not allocate access
Access to Isambard-AI and Isambard 3 are allocated by external bodies. BriCS is not permitted to grant or extend node hour allocations or project end dates.
External information
Information and links are based on best knowledge at the time of writing, and provided on a best endeavours basis. Prospective users should engage with external entities for authoritative guidance.
Isambard-AI¶
DSIT/UKRI¶
Most prospective users will apply for access via this scheme, and presently includes the Gateway and Rapid Access routes. Further information is provided at apply.isambard.ac.uk/ukri.
The Gateway and Rapid Access routes are intended as initial projects, which includes activities to port, test and scale workflows.
All queries should be directed via the project PI. They should use contact details on file, or those stated within the above links. At the time of writing, this is [email protected].
Sovereign AI Unit¶
From time to time, access calls are published. Prospective users are encouraged to monitor the Sovereign AI Unit web page for further information.
All queries should be directed via the project PI. They should use contact details on file if possible, or [email protected].
University of Bristol¶
Permanent academic staff members at the University of Bristol are eligible to apply for the University of Bristol allocation portal. Applications are accepted and evaluated on a rolling basis. Note that allocations via this route will be considerably smaller than the AIRR Gateway route.
All queries should be directed via the project PI using the portal.
Isambard 3¶
UKRI Tier 2¶
The periodic UKRI Tier 2 HPC calls are open to UK research organisation eligible for UKRI funding. Details of past and present calls can be found at apply.isambard.ac.uk/ukri.
All queries should be directed via the project PI. They should use contact details on file, or those stated within the above links. At the time of writing, this is [email protected]
GW4 Alliance¶
Isambard 3 is hosted by the University of Bristol and operated by the GW4 Alliance, and each member institution may apply for access. Each institution manages its own application process and will be advertised internally.
University of Bristol - via the University of Bristol allocation portal. Applications from permanent academic staff are accepted and evaluated on a rolling basis. All queries should be directed via the project PI using the portal.
University of Exeter - prospective PIs should contact [email protected].
Dev/test access¶
Please note that general 'dev/test' access to Isambard-AI or Isambard 3 is not available. This is due to compliance obligations dictated by the bodies that fund the platforms. Please consult the detail of relevant access routes to determine if successful porting and accurate resource estimation is a prerequisite.
Project duration or node hour credit queries?¶
PIs are responsible for managing consumption of the awarded node hours within the time constraints of the project. We are aware that there may be circumstances where a PI may wish to request changes, such as additional node hours or time to complete the project. All users are encouraged to read the accounting guide to plan how to make most effective use of their allocated node hours.
All queries should be directed to the appropriate allocating body directly by the PI using the contact details listed above. Whilst sympathetic to such resourcing challenges, BriCS is unable to represent these requests and support requests will be directed back to this guidance.
Non-PIs should route queries via their PI.