Delivering research computing and data (RCD) services can take many forms and be supported by many types of practitioners. Large research-intensive universities typically have dedicated Advanced Research Computing and/or Research Computing units, while many institutions offer RCD services through their IT units. Reporting structures also vary, with direction coming from Research leadership, IT leadership, or both.

Regardless of where or how these services are delivered, it's well established that RCD is a distinct discipline, separate from IT or other administrative or academic support functions. This talk articulates these distinctions while drawing on examples and experiences. The case will be made that regardless of organizational structure, institutions require dedicated practitioners. These individuals must possess deep technical knowledge of research technologies, a strong understanding of the research process, and the ability to collaborate across diverse disciplines.

Matthew Smith

Matthew Smith

Manager, Research Systems, University of British Columbia

Matt Smith is a Manager with The University of British Columbia’s Advanced Research Computing (ARC) unit, leading the Research Systems team. Matt also co-manages institutional support for the Digital Research Alliance of Canada, Canada’s Federal Research Computing and Data platform. Matt’s education and expertise spans multimedia, research computing, system administration, operations management and organizational coaching. Since 2019 he’s been at UBC ARC, supporting a team of world-class HPC analysts, administrators and architects to provide cutting-edge infrastructure to UBC researchers across all disciplines. He contributes to the Campus Research Computing Consortium (CaRCC) Systems-Facing track and the ACM SIGHPC Systems Professionals community. Matt is also a member of UBC’s Conflict Theatre Community of Practice and an internal coach with UBC’s Coaching Services.

Technology Track