Applying Data Science and AI for Real-World Impact
A National Science Foundation–supported program that engages undergraduate and high school students in data science and artificial intelligence through research, mentorship, and community.
About the Program
The Data Science and AI Scholars program provides undergraduate and high school students with hands-on opportunities to explore data science and AI in real research and educational settings. Scholars work with faculty mentors across disciplines while building technical skills, professional experience, and a strong peer network.
The Data Science and AI Scholars program is funded by a National Science Foundation grant (Award #1915714), Undergraduate Data Science Education at Scale, a partnership between UC Berkeley, UMBC, and Mills College.
Scholars work within thematic areas connected to related NSF-funded projects, including the iHARP Project and the Information Augmentation Project. In addition to research, scholars serve as peer mentors for foundational data science courses and participate in a cohort-based community through the Center for Women in Technology (CWIT) and the Center for Social Science Scholarship (CS3).
Program Lead
Dr. Vandana Janeja,
Information Systems Department &
MData Lab
Partnering Departments, Centers & Universities
Dr. Josephine Namayanja, Executive Director, iHARP
Achala Denagamage, Academic Program Specialist. iHARP & Program Coordinator, Data Science & AI Scholar Program
Dr. Carolyn Seaman, Director, CWIT
Jor’Danna Davis, Assistant Director, CWIT
Dr. Eric Stokan, Director, CS3
Dr. Victoria Coles, Professor, UMCES
What Scholars Do
-
Engage in faculty-mentored research
-
Apply data science and AI techniques to real problems
-
Serve as peer mentors or teaching fellows
-
Participate in professional development workshops
-
Learn and grow as part of a collaborative scholar cohort
Who Can Apply
Open to undergraduate students from a wide range of majors. Prior experience in data science or AI is welcome but not required.
Explore Our Work
Scholars contribute to interdisciplinary projects spanning research, education, and applied data science and AI.
Mentorship
Scholars are supported by faculty mentors, program staff, and a cohort-based community that values collaboration, curiosity, and growth.
Updated on February 3, 2026