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

22–24 July 2026 Universidad Complutense Summer Campus San Lorenzo de El Escorial (Madrid), Spain

The Una Europa Challenge 2026 is an intensive three-day programme designed for doctoral and early-career researchers from Una Europa partner universities. It explores how data science and artificial intelligence can address societal challenges, combining technical skill-building with reflection on ethical, legal, and social implications.

Participants will work in small interdisciplinary teams on real-world case studies, gaining experience in collaborative problem-solving while strengthening transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, and project presentation.

Highlights of the programme include:

  • Intensive three-day in-person experience in an international, interdisciplinary environment
  • Hands-on collaborative projects tackling social welfare challenges
  • Thematic sessions on AI applications and ethical considerations
  • Interaction with leading academics and field experts
  • Final presentations showcasing team projects and innovative solutions
  • Certificate of participation upon completion

Participation details:

  • Supervisor approval required to ensure alignment with your doctoral path
  • Fee: The participation fee is €100; travel costs are to be arranged and funded by participants. Unibo students selected for this intensive programme can apply to request funding made available by the Una Europa Division at Unibo
  • Language requirement: Minimum English proficiency B2; active contribution in English expected

Application process:

  • Deadline: 17 April 2026 (22:00 CEST) via the official Una Europa platform
  • Required documents:
    • CV (max 2 pages)
    • Motivation letter (1 page)
    • University affiliation and contact details
  • Selection by the Una Europa Self-Steering Committee for Data Science and AI; notifications sent by 1 May 2026

This programme is a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge AI applications for social good, develop practical solutions, and collaborate across borders with peers from multiple disciplines.

For further information on eligibility, funding, and the detailed programme, please refer to the official Una Europa website.