[Commlist] Applications Open: Investigate AI Infrastructure at the Cambridge Social Data School this September

Applications are open for the in-person Social Data School (SDS), 
running from 7 – 11 September 2026 at the University of Cambridge. This 
iteration of the School is themed on Investigating AI Infrastructure.
Led by researchers at Cambridge Digital Humanities, the Social Data 
School is an application-only programme that equips learners with the 
skills to conduct data-driven investigations in the public interest. 
This five-day learning experience offers intensive training on the 
material and social impacts of AI infrastructures.

The SDS team will introduce participants to the lifecycle of a digital 
research project, principles of research design, data collection, 
cleaning and preparation, methods of organisation and analysis, as well 
as critical coding. Participants will also explore critical data 
visualisation, surveillance, and machine learning, becoming equipped 
with the tools to critically approach digital technologies.

Applications are welcome from individuals in the media, academia, civil 
society organisations, trade unions, the public sector, and industry, as 
well as anyone with an interest in social data. No prior knowledge of AI 
is needed to apply

This School will integrate critical discussions and practices about AI, 
technological infrastructures, supply chains, social and environmental 
data, as well as coding for social justice.

Modules include, but are not limited to:
Investigating AI Infrastructures & Methodology for Digital Investigations
Machine Learning: Conceptual Foundations
Social Justice Coding in Python
Generative AI, Representation and Bias Unpacking Large Language Models: 
Investigations Toolbox
Investigating Facial Recognition Systems
Critical Data Visualisation

The curriculum is delivered through taught sessions, workshops, a 
keynote and other participatory activities, where collaboration, 
networking and project development with lecturers and peers is 
encouraged. All participants are expected to present their progress and 
share what they have learned at the end of the week.
Visit the SDS homepage to learn more about the timetable, FAQs, and 
terms and conditions: https://www.cdh.cam.ac.uk/events/41476/

**Virtual Information Session**

To find out more about this Data School,  join Convenor Dr Eleanor Dare 
at the Virtual Information Session taking place on 26 May 2026, 14:00 – 
14:45 (UK time). Register for the information session on Teams: 
https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/1cdc82c7-73b5-4631-833d-63cfb423ad47@49a50445-bdfa-4b79-ade3-547b4f3986e9

**Key Dates**

Virtual Information Session: 26 May 2026
Early Bird Application Close: 2 June 2026
Standard Application Close: 30 June 2026

**Fees and Bursaries**

Standard fee: £750.00
Early Bird fee: £695.00
Concession (limited places): £460 per person
Two free bursaries, covering fees only, are available for exceptional 
applications.

**How to Apply**
Applications must be received via the online application portal no later 
than 23:59 on 30 June 2026: https://app.casc.cam.ac.uk/fas_live/cdhsds/

The application form consists of questions with free-text answer boxes. 
Please answer in full sentences with as much detail as you can within 
the word limits provided.
We will ask you to share:

Any experience you have in using digital research methods (300 words)
What you want to learn to develop your skills in this area (200 words)
How participation in the data school will benefit you and/or your 
organisation (200 words)

Should you have any queries, or require support with accessing the 
application system, please email (dataschool /at/ cdh.cam.ac.uk)




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