In line with our mission to foster collaboration across a broad range of disciplines related to environmental data science, the Environmental Data Science Innovation & Impact Lab is now accepting applications for working groups. These groups play a pivotal role in promoting the integrative approach ESIIL champions, pooling knowledge and expertise from various disciplines to tackle environmental issues with a data-driven perspective. Please click here to read our Request for Proposals (RFP).

What are working groups?

Working groups are self-organized research teams focused on well-defined scientific questions that advance environmental data science and require insights from a broad group of researchers and other stakeholders. A single working group may have up to 15 participants and a quorum (50% or more) shall meet in person up to 2 times over a 2 year period, with each meeting lasting between 3 and 5 days.

Click here for the 2026 Request for Proposals (RFP)

Want to learn more?

ESIIL will be hosting information sessions, networking events, and office hours this fall to answer your questions and connect you with others interested in tackling scientific questions that advance environmental data science. 

Info Session Dates:

• Information Session 1: August 19, 2026, 1-2 pm MT: Register Here
• Information Session 2: September 9, 2-3 pm MT: Register Here
• Information Session 3: September 18, 9-10 am MT: Register Here

Networking Events 

Meet others interested in joining or starting a working group! Please add your information to our Working Group Connections sheet and register here for a networking session.

• Networking Event 1: Oct 2, 12-1:30 pm MT
• Networking Event 2: Oct 19, 10-11:30 am MT

Office Hours

ESIIL will be holding office hours to answer any last minute questions you have before submitting your proposal. Sign up coming soon.

Important Dates

Proposals must be submitted to esiil@colorado.edu by November 20, 2026.

Funding decisions will be announced by early February 2027, with anticipated start dates of Working Groups in Summer or Fall 2027.

Questions? Email esiil@colorado.edu.

We look forward to receiving your proposals and working with you to advance environmental data science.