The Data Science Institute (DSI) at Columbia University invites applications for the 10th cohort of the DSI Postdoctoral Fellows Program for the 2027-2029 cycle. This prestigious two-year program aims to develop the next-generation of leaders in data science and artificial intelligence. Fellows will conduct independent and innovative research aligned with a DSI Research Center, a dynamic environment that fosters multidisciplinary and collaborative efforts. We are looking for exceptional candidates who will advance DSI’s broad mission:
DSI is a world-leading institution in data science research and education dedicated to promoting “Data for Good” leveraging data to address societal challenges while integrating humanistic perspectives with scientific and technological advancements.
Established in 2012, DSI is a university-level institute with over 400 affiliated faculty and researchers from 17 schools, institutes, and colleges across Columbia. The Institute maintains strong connections with New York City’s economic development initiatives, including its dynamic and fast-growing start-up community. Our focus is on conducting world-class research and training data scientists to become leaders in academia, industry, and government.
DSI Postdoctoral Fellows will begin their initial one-year appointment (of a two-year commitment) as an Officer of Research on September 1, 2027.
Please note that the University Provost expects all Officers of Research to be present on the Columbia University campus regularly and actively engage in our vibrant in-person community. Remote work arrangements will not be considered for DSI Postdoctoral Fellows. Selected Postdoctoral Fellows are expected to relocate within commuting distance of the University. For foreign nationals, the J-1 Exchange Visitor visa is the most commonly used visa for DSI Postdoctoral Fellows at Columbia University.
The following compensation package is guaranteed for the two-year term, contingent upon satisfactory performance:
To be eligible, applicants must have their doctoral degrees, and be within three years of their degree conferral.. If selected as a fellow, all doctoral requirements must be completed, and the degree awarded and dissertation deposited no later than August 15, 2027 to be able to commence work. The program welcomes applications from both U.S. and non-U.S. citizens.
We are seeking applicants who have explicit interests in advancing and applying data science and artificial intelligence across domains associated with our research centers.
DEADLINE: December 1, 2026
The application deadline is December 1, 2026. All application materials must be submitted by this date, with the exception of confidential letters of recommendation, for which a grace period will be granted until December 18, 2026. Due to the high volume of applications, we will not accept applications submitted after the December 1 deadline. We strongly encourage all prospective applicants to plan accordingly and submit their materials well in advance of the deadline.
Selected DSI Postdoctoral Fellows will be affiliated with one of two designated Research Centers within the Institute. This is to create a cohort within the selected Centers and create a supportive research community for fellows. To this end, please select two Research Centers that most closely align with your research interests and identify potential faculty mentors within those Centers with whom you would be interested in working.
Please note that the Data, Media, and Society and Cybersecurity research centers will not be participating in this year's cohort and are therefore not available for selection. Applicants are encouraged to review the participating Research Centers and identify those that best align with their research interests and goals.
To be eligible for review, applicants must submit all required materials via the Interfolio online application, including:
Please note that materials submitted via email will not be reviewed or considered.
Research statements should provide a comprehensive overview of your current research interests, past accomplishments, and the specific goals you aim to achieve during your time in this program. Additionally, your statement should include a concise proposal outlining your planned research activities as a DSI Postdoctoral Fellow, with a particular emphasis on developing novel artificial science and/or data science tools for advancing specific scientific domains.
Research statements must explain how your research will contribute to or enhance the mission of your chosen DSI research center(s):
DSI Research Centers:
While not mandatory, applicants are encouraged to identify 2-5 potential mentors from one or two DSI research centers. Candidates are not required to have established relationships with prospective mentors and do not need to contact faculty directly prior to submitting their applications. If appropriate, we encourage the identification of mentors from both a methodological area (applied mathematics, computer science, electrical engineering, machine learning, optimization, statistics, etc.) and specific domain area. Finalists will be paired with mentors by the search committee, facilitating a rich mentorship experience that aligns with the fellows' research interests and goals.
Please email dsi-fellows@columbia.edu with questions regarding the program or application process.
Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran
The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
