IDAHO FALLS, ID — A new supercomputer is expanding high-performance computing access for researchers across Idaho through a partnership between Idaho National Laboratory and the state’s public research universities.

The system, known as Lemhi, serves University of Idaho, Boise State University, and Idaho State University, replacing the Falcon supercomputer with faster performance and improved efficiency.

High-performance computing allows researchers to solve complex problems in fields such as artificial intelligence, energy systems, engineering, health sciences, and natural resources. Tasks that could take weeks or months on a standard computer can now be completed in hours or days.

Luke Sheneman, director of research computing and data services at University of Idaho, said the system helps Idaho institutions compete for federal funding and attract faculty and graduate students.

Boise State doctoral student Bourgeois Gadjagboui said Lemhi supports large-scale molecular simulations used in research related to drug development and energy storage. At Idaho State University, GIS director Keith Weber said a process that once took nearly 13 hours was completed in six minutes, supporting wildfire mitigation and post-fire studies funded by FEMA and NASA.

Lemhi is housed at INL’s Collaborative Computing Center in Idaho Falls. INL provides the infrastructure, while University of Idaho manages day-to-day operations. Leadership will rotate among the three universities, with Boise State expected to assume the role in late 2026.

INL previously used the system for about six years before making it available for academic research, extending the value of the investment and expanding access to advanced computing statewide.