RFP: Frontiers of Data Science and AI 2027

Frontiers in Data Science and AI 2027

Catalyzing New Questions, Bold Ideas, and Interdisciplinary Dialogue
Background Information

The Data Science Institute (DSI) invites proposals for event programming for the 2027 calendar year (spring 2027 semester and fall 2027 semester) supporting the following research themes:
- The Future of Evidence in the Age of AI
- The Algorithmic City
Proposed programming should support the Institute’s interdisciplinary mission by fostering vibrant communities, creating space for exchange of knowledge and insights, and promoting collaborative research with potential for future funding.

Please visit the Frontiers webpage to find additional information, details about each theme, and proposal FAQs. You are also welcome to reach out to Alexis Avedisian, DSI’s Director of Events at (aa4598@columbia.edu) to discuss event proposal ideas.

Deadline: Sunday, September 27, 2026 (11:59 PM ET)

Technical Note: The form may time out in your browser. We suggest preparing your application in advance before filling out the form.
- Your Name
  
  First NameLast Name
- Your Email
  example@columbia.edu
- Select your primary Columbia University School or Institute Affiliation:
- If other affiliation, please provide below:
- Your Program or Department Affiliation:
  List the team lead's program or department affiliation.
- Your Columbia Job Title:
- Please list any other core collaborators for your proposed programming:
- What theme are you applying to:
- Provide a brief introduction of your proposed programming:
- What is your proposed topic?
- Provide an explanation of how the programming relates to your selected theme:
- What styles of events are you interested in holding? Please select all that you are considering.
  
  Other
- Who are the anticipated audience or participants for this program? Please select all that apply.
- What time of year is most relevant to the proposed programming?
  
  Other
- Please provide a list of any intended collaborators from Columbia University who are outside of your home department, center, or institute:
- What longer-term outputs or outcomes could emerge from this programming? Please feel free to describe both tangible outputs (such as white papers, publications, or collaborations) and broader impacts (such as new research directions or opportunities for external engagement).
- Each selected proposal will be funded up to $25,000 to support the execution of thematic programming, subject to budget development and confirmation. Funds may be used for:
  - Travel and lodging for invited guests
  - Modest catering for in-person events
  - Event expenses such as venue rental, custodial, AV services, and setup fees
  - PI salaries are not eligible costs, although in some instances salary support for a Columbia-based student worker will be considered, depending on the breadth of the program
  Applicants must submit a detailed budget as a part of their application, which will require Institute approval. Budgets should be realistic and go entirely towards the development and execution of the program. Funds will be retained by the DSI and expenses will be reconciled against the budget.
  
  Please use the following budget template for your proposed budget: Google Sheets or Excel (Download). If you cannot access this document or have any questions, please email aa4598@columbia.edu and ee2548@columbia.edu
- Proposed Budget: Please upload a spreadsheet file of your proposed budget:
  
  Browse Files
  
  Cancelof
- Budget Narrative: Provide a broad budgetary overview, including anticipated costs associated with the programming and the projected total amount:
- Should be Empty:

Frontiers in Data Science and AI 2027