NSF Solicitation Supports AI-Ready Scientific Datasets

Researchers interested in applying artificial intelligence (AI) to scientific discovery may be interested in a new funding opportunity from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF).

The new Unlocking Dataset Value for AI-Enabled Scientific Discovery (NSF 26-512) solicitation supports projects that increase the scientific value of existing datasets by preparing them for AI-driven research. The program seeks to improve the accessibility, interoperability, and usability of scientific datasets, enabling new discoveries through automated analysis, machine learning, and other AI-enabled approaches.

The solicitation also encourages projects that integrate multiple datasets, support interdisciplinary research, and enable investigations beyond the original purpose for which data were collected.

With more than a decade of openly available, quality-controlled ocean observations, the Ocean Observatories Initiative (OOI) provides a rich resource for researchers developing new AI applications. OOI datasets span physical, chemical, biological, and geological measurements collected across diverse ocean environments, making them well suited for innovative analyses that combine multiple data sources and scientific disciplines.

Researchers considering proposals are encouraged to review the full solicitation to determine whether their work aligns with the program’s objectives.

Proposal deadline: November 4, 2026

For complete program information, eligibility requirements, and proposal instructions, visit the NSF website:
https://www.nsf.gov/funding/opportunities/ai-datasets-unlocking-dataset-value-ai-enabled-scientific-discovery/nsf26-512/solicitation