What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to develop a next-generation research infrastructure accessible to digital humanities researchers.

February 28, 2026Open Access

Beyond the Cloud: Democratizing GPU Access for the Digital Humanities with DHInfra.at

Key Points

The aim is to develop a next-generation research infrastructure accessible to digital humanities researchers.
Conducted a half-day workshop with DH researchers and developers.
Focused on federated GPU infrastructure with effective management and user-friendly design.
Provided early access to a tested environment for fine-tuning large language models and building workflows.
Participants received hands-on experience with advanced GPU resources.
Feedback will shape the final infrastructure to better meet humanities research needs.

Abstract

This half-day workshop invites DH researchers and developers to shape Austria's next-generation research infrastructure. As demand for specialized AI computing grows, the DHInfra project is deploying federated GPU infrastructure to bridge local hardware limitations and commercial cloud challenges. Inspired by leading HPC centers and advised by EuroCC, we're building a managed, powerful, user-friendly environment. Timed as a key validation phase before full launch, participants receive early access to infrastructure that has undergone months of rigorous internal testing. Focusing on Large Language Models, attendees will work in prepared containerized environments to fine-tune models and build API-driven workflows. This unique opportunity allows the DH community to test state-of-the-art resources, provide critical feedback, and ensure theplatform aligns perfectly with real-world humanities research needs. Funded via 2023-2026 „(Digitale) Forschungsinfrastruktur”, Bundesministerium für Wissenschaft, Forschung und Wirtschaft via ERC RRF.

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