Installing scientific software packages often introduces complex and time-consuming dependency conflicts in both local and high-performance computing (HPC) environments. Container technologies, such as those built with Docker, address these challenges by providing isolated, self-contained environments for applications. This isolation ensures that the container remains unaffected by additional software installations or configuration changes on the host system. Once an application is verified to run correctly within a container, it will continue to function reliably regardless of future system updates.
Docker is widely used and easily installed on all major operating systems, including macOS, Windows, and Linux, making it an ideal entry point for learning containerization. This workshop will introduce the fundamental concepts of Docker-based containers and demonstrate how to set up and test applications locally, such as on a laptop or desktop.

Expected outcome: Participants will create and run a functional Docker container on their local machines.