Install software with EasyBuild

STUB — replace with cluster-specific paths and policy. EasyBuild lets you compile and install scientific software in a clean, reproducible way — useful when a software version you need is not in the central modules already maintained by Labs.

When to reach for EasyBuild

• The version of a tool in module avail is older than what your work needs.
• You want a build with non-default options (e.g., a specific MPI flavour).
• You are a power user maintaining a private build, not asking Labs to add a module.

If the software is needed by more than one person in your group, ask Labs to add it instead — we will maintain a shared module for everyone.

Quick install

module load EasyBuild
eb --search YourSoftware
eb YourSoftware-X.Y.Z-foss-2024a.eb --robot
module use ~/.local/easybuild/modules/all
module load YourSoftware/X.Y.Z-foss-2024a

Replace the prefix and any cluster-specific module names with the conventions used at the Goethe Frankfurt cluster.

Spack — a second option

Spack is also available on the cluster for similar purposes. Pick whichever fits your habits; we are happy to help with either.

module load Spack
spack info yoursoftware
spack install yoursoftware@x.y.z

When you’re stuck

EasyBuild errors are usually about missing dependencies or compiler/MPI mismatches. Open a ticket with the full output of eb and the EasyConfig you used.