Una Europa Challenge 2026: Data Science and AI for Social Welfare

The Una Europa Challenge “Data Science and AI for Social Welfare” is an intensive three-day programme aimed at doctoral and early-career researchers from Una Europa partner universities.

The initiative focuses on the application of data science and artificial intelligence to societal challenges, combining technical development with reflection on ethical, legal and social implications. Participants will work on concrete case studies and develop project-based solutions in an international and interdisciplinary environment.

Working in small teams, participants will engage with different methodological approaches and disciplinary perspectives, with the aim of designing responsible and impactful AI solutions.

Participants will:

• engage with current challenges related to AI and society
• collaborate with peers from different disciplines and institutions
• strengthen their ability to approach complex problems from multiple perspectives
• develop transferable skills such as teamwork, communication and project presentation

The programme includes:

• an intensive three-day in-person experience
• team-based project development
• interaction with academics and experts in the field
• final presentation of project outcomes

Participants will receive a certificate of participation upon completion of the programme.

The Challenge is organised within the framework of the Una Europa Alliance and hosted by Universidad Complutense de Madrid.

Application and selection process

Applications must be submitted through the official Una Europa platform by
🗓️ 17 April 2026 (22:00 CEST)

👉 Apply here: Application form

You will need to submit:

• An updated CV (maximum of 2 pages).
• A motivation letter (one page).
• Your university affiliation and contact details.

Members of the Una Europa academic Self-Steering Committee in Data Science and AI will review the applications and allocate places based on uniform criteria agreed upon by all participating Una Europa universities. Selected candidates will be notified no later than 1 May 2026.

Fees and funding

The participation fee is €100.

Accommodation and meals during the programme are covered for selected participants. Travel costs are to be arranged and funded by participants.

At most Una Europa partner universities, participants may apply for Erasmus+ funding (Blended Intensive Programme or staff mobility) through their home institution.

As funding schemes and eligibility criteria vary across institutions, participants are advised to contact their local Erasmus+ office for further information.

Programme

The Challenge consists of a three-day in-person programme structured around:

• collaborative project work in small teams
• thematic sessions on AI applications for social welfare
• discussions on ethical and regulatory aspects of artificial intelligence
• final presentations of the developed projects

The activities are designed to encourage active participation, exchange of perspectives and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Find out more about the programme and explore the detailed programme

English language requirements

A minimum English proficiency level of B2 is required.

Participants are expected to actively contribute to discussions and group work conducted in English.

Further information

Additional details on the programme, including the full schedule, application process and logistical information, are available on the official Una Europa webpage.