To create an optimal workflow that encompasses the diverse computing requirements of bioinformatics research, the Malaysia Genomics Institute (MGI) selected SGI to design a unique SGI hybrid computing solution.
Because bioinformatics research uses a variety of software at various stages in the workflow, the combined use of shared-memory systems and clusters can provide an optimal environment for the efficient use of each application. MGI looked to SGI to design a seamless, cohesive workflow for the entire process that would integrate into the existing infrastructure. SGI delivered a hybrid computing solution that consists of the new SGI BioCluster as well as an SGI(R) Altix(R) shared memory server and an SGI(R) InfiniteStorage CXFS(TM) SAN shared file system, which makes the entire workflow transparent to the user regardless of software employed or stage of the process at which scientists are performing.
"Bioinformatics brings together an avalanche of systematic biological data with the analytic theory and practical tools of mathematics and computer science," said Mohd Noor Mat Isa, Laboratory Manager, Malaysia Genome Institute. "SGI delivered flexible computing with a hybrid architecture that integrates high-throughput, high-performance and FPGA-based solutions for all of our bioinformatics applications -- a solution that seamlessly runs applications in the environment best suited for optimal performance."
Genomic sequencing operations utilize applications such as PHRAP, Staden Package, JAZZ , Consed, and BLAST each with specific compute requirements necessitating multiple systems. The SGI BioCluster solution includes a software layer providing transparent workload scheduling through which users can submit jobs without hardware concerns. The SGI solution's administrative software intelligently cues submissions to run on the appropriate platform, providing best-in-class performance and optimal load balancing. Integrated cluster management tools and dynamic software controls can change the total system from a single meta-cluster to semi-autonomous sub-clusters as needs dictate. For unexpected time-critical computing challenges, the SGI hybrid solution enables administrators to bring all available resources to bear on a single job.