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 will 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.

Want to learn more?

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

• Information Session 1: September 5, 1:00-2:00 pm MT, Register Here

• Information Session 2: September 29, 9:00-10:00 am MT, Register Here

• Office Hours: Do you have specific questions about your proposal? Sign up for office hours here.

Finding Collaborators

If you are interested in joining a working group but don’t yet have a team or are you looking for collaborators to add to your proposal, please add your information to and utilize our Working Group Connections sheet.

• Networking Event: October 20th, 12:00-1:30 pm MT

  • Join us to connect with others interested in tackling scientific questions that advance environmental data science through ESIIL Working Groups. Whether you are looking for collaborators to join your proposal, or would like to contribute to a working group, this event is for you. Click here to learn more and register.

Important Dates

Proposals must be submitted in PDF format to esiil@colorado.edu by November 21, 2025.

Funding decisions will be announced by early February 2026, with anticipated start dates of Working Groups in Summer or Fall 2026.

Questions? Email esiil@colorado.edu.

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