Case Study: RENCI (Renaissance Computing Institute) achieves scalable archival and faster HPC data access with Quantum Corporation's StorNext

RENCI Relies on StorNext Multi-Tier Storage for Data-Intensive Genome Sequencing and Coastal Modeling

The Renaissance Computing Institute (RENCI) at UNC Chapel Hill supports data‑intensive research across life, earth, and data sciences, powering a 5,168‑core HPC cluster used for genome sequencing and high‑resolution coastal modeling. Researchers generate massive, fast‑growing datasets (genomes can be 100+ GB per person; LIDAR produces detailed 3D storm‑surge models) and needed scalable, cost‑effective long‑term archiving, reliable multi‑user access, and better I/O for HPC workflows.

RENCI deployed a StorNext multi‑tier storage environment—metadata and gateway appliances, a StorNext scratch disk with distributed LAN client, and Quantum Scalar i6000 tape libraries—plus policy‑based tiering and a single transparent namespace. The result: simplified administration, nearly 3 PB of scalable archival capacity with lower cost and power footprint, faster multi‑user HPC performance, seamless collaborator access without moving data offsite, and researchers able to focus on science rather than storage management.

Renci

Chris Bizon

Senior Informatics Scientist