Advancements empower Tech researchers
Rick Hohlt, Publisher
Louisiana Tech’s position as part of a cutting edge computer network in the state is another of the many initiatives that will position the university well for its future in research.
Tech’s research future, an outgrowth of dreams set in motion two decades ago, has grown through focused efforts like grant-writing and a presence in state and national scholarly pursuits.
Involvement in the Louisiana Optical Network Initiative is no different, in that respect, than having representatives working with the National Science Foundation on a clean energy project.
LONI does, however, empower the university in a unique way, giving it an impressive link to other research entities statewide and through national networks.
It is futuristic — LONI is used principally by academics and has applications in data analyses like that necessary for particle physics experimentation.
It is a link to a stronger presence in places that attract good faculty and good students. Tell a budding or established researcher that you have access to one of the strongest academic computer networks out there, and you’re bound to have their attention.
Tech added a supercomputer to the network recently with the activation of “Painter,” named for the civil engineering professor responsible for bringing the first computer to campus in the 1950s.
The moniker fits. The connection to LONI that Painter and its sibling supercomputer Bluedawg represent is truly a new kind of first for the university. There is an ever-growing fascination with the power the network brings to bear, and Tech stands to gain a lot through working with it — just like that first computer.
The leadership team at Tech that has had a key role in LONI since its inception is showing exceptional foresight and understanding of Louisiana’s need to gather strong minds to strengthen its economy. LONI is an attractive resource to those who are possibly working on the edge of scientific achievement. It is also a bright spot for the state as a whole, not just the members of the network.
More collaboration through LONI will help continue the effort to break ground in scientific advances here.
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November 7th, 2009
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