In November 2011, the Helmholtz Society decided to establish a „Simulation Laboratory Neuroscience“ at Research Center Jülich. Its purpose is to act as an interface between the Jülich Supercomputing Centre (JSC) and the neuroscience community, and to foster the usage of the Jülich computing resources in neuroscience. Starting 2013, the new facility will be funded by the Helmholtz Society.

Since supercomputers work differently than regular computers, neuroscientists will need to adapt the simulations of brain processes to their specific needs and possibilities in order to make optimal use of the Jülich computer power. The Simulation Laboratory Neuroscience offers researchers the opportunity to adapt and optimize their programs together with experts on computational neuroscience, data analysis, anatomy, virtual reality and supercomputing. In addition, the facility will advance the further development and standardization of theoretical models in the field of brain research.

Within the framework of the „Simulation Laboratory Neuroscience“, a “Bernstein Facility: Simulation and Database Technology“ will be established. Upon proposal by Research Center Jülich and decision of the Bernstein Project Committee, the new facility will be integrated into the Bernstein Network. The facility offers the network expertise, assistance and consulting services in developing software for supercomputing, integrating new data into large-scale models and in applying for computing times at Research Center Jülich.

The cooperation with the Bernstein Network is an excellent example of how long-term institutional funding of the Helmholtz Association and BMBF project funding can complement each other towards a common goal: understanding the brain.

Press release about the new Bernstein Facility (link)