Communities of Practice network HAIL together. There are two types of communities of practice:
- Thematic—which center societal challenges and approaches that leverage many distinct responsible data science approaches and tools, and
- Infrastructural — which focus on educational, research, or ethical and responsibility structures that cut across multiple themes.
Faculty, researchers, students, and professionals are invited to join these vibrant communities, each focused on addressing critical societal challenges through the lens of data science, and contribute to meaningful change.
The leaders of the Communities of Practice and programs, along with the Associate Vice Provost for Data Science, comprise the Steering Committee that guides the internal directions of HAIL.
Thematic Communities of Practice
Three thematic Communities of Practice convene experts across campus to collaboratively address the ethical, technical, and social dimensions of data science
These CoPs are dedicated to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across the University, advancing knowledge, and promoting responsible data practices.
- Access and Equity Community of Practice
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Led by Dr. Sera Linardi from the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs, the Access and Equity CoP is dedicated to ensuring that data science is inclusive and equitable. This community builds on the foundations of the ACM Conference on Equity and Access in Algorithms, Mechanisms, and Optimization (EAAMO) and aims to create a space where diverse voices can drive impactful change. Sera’s appointment will start in January of 2025.
- Data Science in Addiction Community of Practice
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Under the leadership of Dr. Xiang-Qun (Sean) Xie, the Data Science in Addiction CoP is dedicated to leveraging data science techniques to improve addiction treatment and prevention. This community is closely aligned with the University of Pittsburgh’s Master’s in PharmacoAnalytics program, providing a robust foundation for addressing addiction-related issues through data-driven methods.
- Sustainability Community of Practice
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The Sustainability CoP, spearheaded by Dr. Melissa Bilec and Gena Kovalcik, focuses on harnessing the power of data to drive sustainable solutions. This community seeks to promote responsible data science practices aligned with the principles of environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
Infrastructure Programs
HAIL is a collaborative effort designed to position the University of Pittsburgh as a leader in shaping the digital future. Launching these infrastructure programs marks a significant step in the University's commitment to connecting across the University and fostering a culture of responsibility, innovation, and excellence in this rapidly evolving field.
- Responsibility Program
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Eleanor Mattern, a renowned expert in information ethics and digital stewardship, will head the Responsibility Program within HAIL. Mattern's leadership will focus on developing frameworks and practices that ensure data science initiatives align with ethical standards, accountability, and community needs. Her work will be instrumental in shaping shared understanding that guides the responsible use of data across all sectors.
- Education Program
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The Education Program, spearheaded by Matthew Burton, will concentrate on cultivating the next generation of data scientists. Burton, an experienced educator with a strong background in information sciences, will lead efforts to integrate and innovate responsible data science principles into the curriculum, offering students hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the ethical implications of data use. This program will also provide resources and training for professionals looking to enhance their skills in this critical area.
- Research Program
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Justin Kitzes, an accomplished researcher in quantitative ecology and data-driven environmental science, will direct the Research Program. Kitzes will oversee groundbreaking research initiatives exploring research applications responsible for data science as a practice of research. His work will contribute to the academic field and provide actionable insights for real-world applications. His appointment will begin August 2025.
- Data and Services Program
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Robert Gradeck leads the Data and Services Program for HAIL, helping researchers, students, and community partners access and utilize high-quality data resources. He and the Western Pennsylvania Regional Data Center provide services like data acquisition, cleaning, and visualization, along with expert consultations to support impactful research and responsible data use.
Get Involved
To join or create a HAIL Community of Practice, please fill out this survey.
- Joining a Community of Practice
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By joining a CoP, you will have the opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals, participate in innovative projects, and make a meaningful impact in areas that matter most.
We encourage you to explore these Communities of Practice and find the one that aligns with your interests and expertise. Together, we can harness the power of data science to drive positive change and address the complex challenges facing our society today.
- Creating a Community of Practice
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Communities of Practice must have an identified leader, at least one additional liaison who can aid with the organization of the community, an interdisciplinary team. If thematic, the Community of Practice must have a high-profile topic that can be impacted positively by our broad definition of responsible data science.
If you would like to apply to form an HAIL thematic Community of Practice, please prepare a 500-1,000 word statement of intent that:
1. Lays out the thematic vision, mission, and goals for the proposed community, why it is important, how it relates to responsible data science, and what obstacles need to be overcome for the community to accomplish its goals;
2. Clearly identifies the leader and the liaisons who will coordinate with research, education, and responsibility infrastructure groups;
3. Contains a membership list that includes members from at least three different units across campus who have demonstrated interested in the proposed community's work; and
4. Shares a timeline of activities, events, and/or publications that members have produced either individually, in subsets, or as a whole related to the topic or infrastructure.
Communities of Practice receive administrative support and resources to grow the impact of the community as well as to run events.