Automated Customizable Containerization

A container packages up an application's code and dependencies, so it runs quickly and reliably across all computing environments. Using Singularity, a text-based recipe file is written in order to construct a container. However, all shell commands to install the desired applications and dependencies must be known, creating a daunting task for a novice builder. We solve this using a Python script with a database of installation commands for a plethora of applications, written automatically into a Singularity recipe file. Future work includes expanding the library of available apps, automating the database upkeep, and integrating the script with HPC systems.