ATLAS Canada Computing Workshop

US/Pacific
3800 Finnerty Rd, Victoria, BC, Canada V8P 5C2
Alison Lister (University of British Columbia (CA)), Bob Kowalewski (University of Victoria (CA)), Danika MacDonell (University of Victoria (CA)), Michel Lefebvre (University of Victoria (CA)), Samuel Ross Meehan (CERN)
Description

**Please note**: The ATLAS Canada computing workshop will not be taking place in-person this July due to COVID-19 restrictions. The organizers are looking into possibilities to present some of the workshop material in a virtual format later in the summer - stay tuned for more info!

 

General Information

This is an interactive hands-on workshop covering software and computing tools for ATLAS physics analysis. Participants will work with and develop a sample ATLAS physics analysis throughout the workshop. The sample analysis is intended to provide participants with an accessible example illustrating the basic software and design components involved in developing an ATLAS analysis, as well as a hands-on playground to directly apply and practice the tools learned during the workshop.

The optional first day (‘day 0’) is geared towards researchers new to ATLAS analysis and computing, with the aim of introducing newcomers to some of the fundamental tools common to most ATLAS analyses.

The rest of the week will cover a selection of tools and techniques intended to help ATLAS researchers at a variety of levels make effective use of these tools in their own work. See the schedule below for details of the tools to be covered.

We hope to welcome a diverse range of ATLAS researchers to the workshop, and participants will be encouraged to share their own expertise and help one another out throughout the workshop.

Programming Fundamentals: While we aim to keep the workshop accessible to a wide range of background and experience levels, we will have to assume some basic familiarity with bash, C++ and python on the part of the participants. To give an idea of the assumed programming background, we’ve put together a summary of concepts/skills in each category (bash, C++, python) that we consider important to get the most out of the workshop, as well as resources to help you learn/brush up on any of the topics. If you’re worried about whether your background is appropriate for the workshop, or would like to discuss these programming skills further, don’t hesitate to get in touch (see contact info below), and we’ll do our best to help you get ready to learn with us!

Nitty Gritty Details

Who: The workshop is aimed at ATLAS Canada researchers at any career level interested in learning computing tools and techniques for ATLAS physics analysis. The event will also be open to US-ATLAS participants. Some background with bash, C++, and python will be assumed (see note above). Note: the room will be able to accommodate at most 45 participants.

Accommodation: 30 beds (mix of one or two single beds per room) have been blocked off for workshop attendees in the UVic student dorms. Prices:

Room with one single bed: $54/night

Room with two single beds: $63/night

Please call residence services at 1-250-721-8395 or email  to reserve a room. When making a reservation, please include the following information:

  • Name of the workshop: "ATLAS Canada Computing Workshop"
  • Your name, address and phone number
  • An email address for the reservation
  • Check-in date
  • Check-out date

UVic will keep the rooms blocked off only until June 20, so book early to avoid disappointment!

Campus construction: There will be construction activities on campus and planned demolition of nearby campus dorm buildings over the summer. The exact schedule of these activities is not yet known. We will update as we receive more information.

Requirements: Participants must bring a laptop with a Mac, Linux, or Windows operating system (not a tablet, Chromebook, etc.) that they have administrative privileges on. They should have a few specific software packages installed (listed below). It is highly recommended that you DO NOT choose to use Windows. If you currently have a windows machine, please make it dual boot with Linux - follow these instructions.

Accessibility: We are committed to making this workshop accessible to everybody. The workshop organizers have checked that:

  • The room is wheelchair / scooter accessible.
  • Accessible restrooms are available.

If we can help making learning easier for you (e.g. sign-language interpreters, lactation facilities) please get in touch (using contact details below) and we will attempt to provide them.

Pre-workshop Activities

  1. Familiarize yourself with bash, C++, and python basics (list of programming basics and educational resources)
  2. Download Docker on personal laptop (docker installation instructions)
Registration
Registration for ATLAS Canada computing workshop