RFP: Frontiers - Thinking Machines (Fall 2026 Programs)

Frontiers of Data Science and AI: Thinking Machines

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

The Data Science Institute (DSI) invites proposals for programming – seminars, workshops, symposia, hackathons – for the Fall 2026 semester supporting the following research theme: Thinking Machines: Toward abstraction, compositionality, and common sense.

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. To achieve these goals, we are seeking proposals for programming that:
- Span at least one semester, with a cadence of three or more events per semester, or two large scale events (e.g. full day symposia or conference)
- Has strong potential for development of at least one white paper to facilitate thought leadership on the topic. The Institute can provide white paper writing assistance if needed.
- Demonstrates potential for co-sponsorship with other campus entities (schools, institutes and centers)
Please visit the Frontiers webpage to find additional program information, details about each theme, and FAQs. You are also welcome to reach out to Alexis Avedisian (aa4598@columbia.edu) to discuss event proposal ideas.

Deadline: Sunday, March 22, 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:*
- Provide a brief introduction of your proposed programming:*
- What is your proposed topic?*
- What is the programming format? please select all that you are considering.*
  
  SeminarPanel discussionHackathonsConferencesOther
- Who are the anticipated audiance or participants for this program? Please select all that apply.*
  
  Columbia facultyGraduate studentsUndergraduate studentsExternal guestsOther
- What time of year is most relevant to the proposed programming?*
  
  Fall semesterSpring semesterAll yearOther
- Please provide a list of any intended collaborators from Columbia University who are outside of your home department, center, or institute:
  Optional
- Provide an explanation of how the programming relates to your selected theme:*
- What are the expected outcomes from programming?*
- Each selected proposal will be funded up to $15,000 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.
  
  Frontiers Sample Budget and Expenses (Spreadsheet) - if you cannot access this document, please email aa4598@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 of Data Science and AI: Thinking Machines