Columbia Undergraduate Data Science and AI Research Fair (2026)

2026 Theme: AI Dichotomies

AI is becoming embedded across nearly every aspect of our lives, from how we learn and work to how we communicate, create, conduct research, and make decisions. At the same time, attitudes toward AI are divided. It is embraced as a powerful tool for discovery and innovation, questioned for its social and environmental costs, and debated for its potential to both augment and displace human capabilities.

This year’s fair asks students to explore these tensions rather than resolve them. Where does AI create new possibilities, and where does it introduce new risks? What should remain distinctly human? And how do we navigate a future in which AI may be simultaneously transformative, controversial, and increasingly difficult to avoid?

2026 Thematic Tracks:

• Human Connection - What remains distinctly human in an AI-mediated world?
• Work and Learning - How is AI changing what it means to learn, work, and build expertise?
• Progress and Responsibility - How do we balance AI’s potential for progress with its risks and consequences?

Student Application: Currently enrolled undergraduate students at Columbia and Barnard can now submit a project for inclusion at the fair. Please use this form to apply by Monday, November 16.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: The Columbia Morningside campus is open to the Columbia community. If you do not have an active CUID, the deadline to register is at 12:00 PM the day before the event. External guests will recieve a QR code by email to enter campus