When Erik Fabrizzi joined the EUMaster4HPC programme in 2023, he was already passionate about theoretical science. With a background in physics from the University of Regensburg, he took a bold step by pivoting into the world of High-Performance Computing (HPC). “It was a calculated risk” Erik recalls, “but one that allowed me to align my strengths in mathematics and physics with cutting-edge computing.”
That decision proved to be transformative. During his first year, Erik excelled academically, completing an impressive 75 ECTS with top results across applied mathematics, computer science, and HPC. His performance quickly attracted attention, leading to multiple offers for research assistant and PhD positions. He accepted a position at NHR@FAU, where he not only contributed to research on hybrid parallelisation strategies (MPI, OpenMP, GPU accelerators) but also took on a teaching role in graduate-level MPI courses—responsibilities normally reserved for PhD candidates.
Beyond academics, Erik distinguished himself in competitive and collaborative settings. In 2024, his team achieved third place in the Teratec HPC Hackathon, an impressive feat considering they competed against more advanced students. As team leader, Erik coordinated tasks under pressure, aligning each member’s expertise with the challenges at hand and ensuring efficient teamwork.
At the EuroHPC Summit 2025, Erik stepped up again as an Ambassador team leader. He guided his peers during high-pressure moments, including the opening plenary with over 1,000 attendees, and co-managed the Demo Labs for Discoverer and Leonardo, deploying projects in collaboration with European supercomputing centers. He also mentored fellow students, connecting them with opportunities for internships and theses through his professional network.
Erik’s creativity came to life in a standout project at the EuroHPC Summit Demo Lab: a GPU-accelerated, real-time simulation of the Ising model hosted on the VEGA supercomputer. What made it unique was its interactive component—the simulation responded instantly to physical inputs from magnetic field and temperature sensors. Visitors could “play” with a virtual ferromagnet using magnets, body heat, or even a lighter. “The idea of linking real-world signals to large-scale simulations has always fascinated me,” Erik says. “With this project, I believe I pushed the boundaries of what interactive HPC applications can be.”
Now, completed the EUMaster4HPC programme, Erik is looking forward to applying his multidisciplinary expertise in physics, mathematics, and HPC to the challenges ahead. As an EUMaster4HPC Ambassador, he is committed to giving back to the programme and inspiring the next generation of HPC professionals.
“Many people are unaware of HPC as a career path. But in today’s scientific and industrial landscape, concentrating talent in HPC is essential. I want to help attract and cultivate that talent here in Europe.”
Erik’s journey stands as a reminder of how passion, curiosity, and collaboration can open new frontiers. Through his work, he continues to bridge science and technology—paving the way for a stronger, more connected HPC community in Europe.
