ITS Spotlight: National High Magnetic Field Laboratory
The National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (MagLab) is a world-renowned research facility located in Tallahassee, Florida, and is home to some of the most powerful magnets in the world. Behind the cutting-edge research, there is a dedicated IT team ensuring that the technology infrastructure runs seamlessly. This month, we are highlighting the MagLab’s IT support team, led by Director Jim Berhalter.
Q&A with Jim Berhalter, Director of IT at MagLab
What is your team’s name?
We are the Computer Support Group.
Who makes up the team, and what roles do they perform?
Our team consists of four members:
· Andrew – Windows Systems Administrator
· Grayson – Linux Systems Administrator
· Gabe – General Tech Support
· Jim Berhalter – Director
Our primary function is to support the backend systems of the MagLab. This includes everything from desktops and laptops to servers, DNS, DHCP, active directory, web servers, print servers, and file storage systems. We also manage all audiovisual technology across multiple conference rooms.
What are some of the projects your team is currently working on?
One of our biggest ongoing projects is migrating our in-house email server to FSU’s Office 365 system, which has been a significant challenge. Grayson, our Linux administrator, has been leading the technical aspects of this transition. Additionally, we have been improving our backup systems and upgrading meeting rooms with new screens and AV equipment to enhance collaboration and efficiency.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
It’s the people. My team is small but incredibly talented, and they care about their work beyond the typical 8-to-5 schedule. We all take immense pride in ensuring the lab’s IT infrastructure operates smoothly so that researchers can focus on their groundbreaking work.
How does your team collaborate with other departments at FSU?
Historically, MagLab has operated independently in terms of IT, but in recent years, we have moved toward greater collaboration with FSU’s ITS department. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, we worked closely with ITS to rewire our building and enhance our network infrastructure. Additionally, we are aligning more with FSU’s systems, such as integrating with Active Directory for future use, and utilizing enterprise tools.
How does your team stay ahead of new technologies and innovations?
While many aspects of IT are standard and don’t change drastically (such as DNS and DHCP), we do get excited about high-performance computing. Some of the workstations we support cost up to $30,000 each, designed for high-end calculations and research applications. Keeping up with advancements in hardware ensures that MagLab researchers have the best possible tools for their work.
What is your vision for the MagLab IT team?
In the future, I’d love to expand our team by adding one or two more techs. This would allow me to focus more on strategic management rather than being hands-on with troubleshooting. Another major initiative on the horizon is migrating to FSU’s Active Directory, a complex project that will require careful planning to minimize disruptions to the lab’s critical operations.
MagLab’s IT team plays a crucial role in supporting the world-class research conducted at the facility. Though much of their work happens behind the scenes, their dedication ensures that scientists have a reliable and high-performance computing environment.
