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Accelerating research through the power of data science

We pull together the brightest minds and best ideas across UW–Madison to derive meaning and value from data.

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The University of Wisconsin–Madison Data Science Institute, powered by a generous gift from American Family Insurance, is central to the university’s strategic priority to grow its research enterprise and expand its global impact.

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Advancing the forefront of data science research

The Data Science Institute collaborates with on- and off-campus researchers, industry, and community partners to solve problems and speed the pace of discovery. 

We connect these collaborators with our data scientists to catalyze innovation and bring the benefits of data science research to their laboratories, businesses, and society. 

Our research strategy is informed by the observation that the unique challenges found in real-world problems often inspire foundational advances in data science. By collaborating with campus, industry, and community groups, DSI simultaneously supports the research mission of the university and advances the forefront of data science through use-inspired research.

Check out our research portfolio
A word cloud encased in an outline of the map of Wisconsin. The biggest words are community, safe, transit, action, and public.
A graphic showing how LLMs were used to detect anomalies and create alerts for manufacturing safety
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From the start of our AI project, it felt like working with a true thought partner. The team took the time to understand both the technical side and the safety context we were building for, and they were open to iteration as the idea evolved. I’d highly recommend pointing other founders your way, especially those working on AI applications aimed at complex, real-world problems.
Mitch Swartz, SafeSet

On campus

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Campus RISE Initiative

RISE-AI Collaboration HQ advances scholarship in the field of artificial intelligence

A campus-wide effort called RISE-AI Collaboration HQ is helping to foster new research communities, build connections on campus and off, improve funding opportunities, and enhance teaching and engagement as part of the RISE-AI Initiative.

Learn more about the RISE-AI Collaboration HQ

  • Shiu receives WARF Named Professorship

    DSI Affiliate Gary Shiu was recently named the Paul Dirac Professor of Physics. His research focuses on unifying quantum mechanics and gravity into a consistent framework for understanding nature.

  • Li receives NSF CAREER award

    DSI Affiliate Daijiang Li received an NSF CAREER award. His project integrates ecological theory, large-scale data, and AI to transform the study of urban biodiversity.

  • Gernsbacher Receives Lifetime Achievement Award

    DSI Affiliate Morton Ann Gernsbacher has been named the recipient of the prestigious Norman Anderson Lifetime Achievement Award by the Society of Experimental Psychologists (SEP).

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Points of Pride

82

DSI faculty and staff affiliates
at UW–Madison

$37M

Research grants where DSI leads
or is a partner

$6M

Industry-sponsored grants for 55
campus research projects