Midwest Research Computing and Data Consortium
The basis of network success is an in-person Annual Network Retreat. These retreats will be held at locations distributed across the network boundaries and hosted by consortium members. The agendas will be similar in scale to the earlier MRCC meetings and will focus on topics of mutual interest as well as advancing the goals of the accelerator programs. It may include talks, in which case we will encourage pairs of senior/junior CI professionals to co-present so as to create within-institution professional development opportunities. Also envisioned are student-led panels where the host institution invites students to prepare questions for a panel of CI professionals attending the meeting.
The Midwest RCD Consortium Annual Network Meeting is a 1.5-day, in-person gathering that brings together research computing, data, and cyberinfrastructure professionals from across the Midwest and beyond. In 2026, we’re excited to convene at the Big Ten Conference Center in Rosemont, Illinois, for 1.5 days of learning, collaboration, and community-building. This meeting offers a welcoming space to exchange ideas, explore emerging trends, and share practical approaches to supporting research computing and data services. Through interactive sessions, workshops, and facilitated discussions, participants will engage with peers facing similar challenges and opportunities across institutions. Whether you’re new to RCD or a long-time contributor, the Annual Meeting is designed to foster meaningful connections, spark new ideas, and strengthen the Midwest RCD community.
The meeting will feature a mix of:
The program is being developed with community input and will be posted once finalized.
Registration for the Annual Meeting is free. Breakfast, lunch, refreshments, and a networking reception will be provided. Lodging support will be available upon request for eligible participants. During registration, attendees will be asked to indicate lodging needs and make arrangements through the consortium to help us meet our hotel commitments.
The Student Experience Program provides undergraduate and graduate students with an opportunity to engage directly with the RCD community through hands-on participation, networking, and exposure to real-world research computing work. Selected students will receive: Lodging during the meeting and up to a $250 award (paid after the meeting). Applications are open. We strongly encourage students from diverse backgrounds and perspectives to apply.
Apply for the Student Experience