The SciDAC program is structured as a set of coordinated investments across all SC mission areas with the goal of achieving breakthrough scientific advances via computer simulation that are impossible using theoretical or laboratory studies alone. In addition, the use of advanced computing technologies to accelerate scientific discovery is not limited to simulation-based science. It can also be applied to improving both experimental and theoretical science. Over the five years of the initial round of SciDAC investments, researchers have achieved key scientific insights in a number of areas of national importance, including fusion, combustion, climate modeling, high energy and nuclear physics, and astrophysics. These advances have been accomplished through the development of state-of-the-art-simulation codes. The results of these simulations, together with associated theory and experiment, help ensure that the U.S. maintains a leadership role in science and technology.
The major source of acceleration in simulation-based science has been the strength and depth of partnerships among application domains, computer science, and applied mathematics. All SciDAC application proposals for research in the scientific domains were required to include plans for partnerships that integrate advanced applied mathematics and computer science technologies with the proposed domain-specific efforts. In addition, plans frequently requested additional resources for closely related computer science and applied mathematics research to ensure adequate integration. Work proposed in computer science or applied mathematics was clearly identified.
Challenges and opportunities are being pursued in the following areas:
Physics — includes Computational Astrophysics, Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD), High Energy Physics and Nuclear Physics with Petabytes, and Turbulence;
Climate Modeling and Simulation;
Computational Biology;
Fusion Science;
Groundwater Reactive Transport Modeling and Simulation; and
Materials Science and Chemistry. Additional Science Application areas are under consideration and targeted solicitations are expected in FY 2007.
The major source of progress in simulation-based science depends upon the strength and depth of partnerships among application domains, computer science, and applied mathematics. Science Application Partnerships (SAPs or Partnerships) offer support for this type of multidisciplinary interaction. SAPs enable applied mathematics and computer science research to significantly enhance a targeted Science Application project.
