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The DataSci+AI Forum brought together the University of Pittsburgh's work at the forefront of promoting responsible AI and data science practices. Building on Pitt Data Science Day in 2025, the 2026 edition drew a substantially larger audience and reflected broader engagement both within and beyond the University of Pittsburgh. We were interested in comparing the two years and it shows that the AI and Data Science Forum is increasing in scale and strengthening its ability to bring together a wider community around data science and artificial intelligence.

We are proud to announce and showcase the Best Poster Award winners at the 2026 Pitt Data Science and AI Forum Student Poster Session. The presenters of the following posters were awarded a cash and merchandise prize. Congratulations to our award winners and all who submitted posters for a great poster session!

On-Chain Decentralized Learning and Cost-Effective Inference for DeFi Attack Mitigation — Abdulrahman Alhaidari

By: Kendra Oliver, Ph.D., M.P.S.

Pitt’s new Hub for AI and Data Science Leadership (HAIL) will unite AI efforts across campus. Continue reading ...

Building on the success of the RDS@Pitt Student Scholars Program for undergraduate students, the Hub for AI and Data Science Leadership (HAIL) is launching a graduate-level opportunity in the 2026 spring and summer semesters.

The University of Pittsburgh’s strategy surrounding artificial intelligence will be practical, supporting students and the workforce, said Michael Colaresi, newly named director of the academic Hub for AI and Data Science Leadership.

By Caleb Finamore

Editor's Note: this is the final part in our mini-series on the EAAMO conference.
Part 1 | Part 2

By Katie Voigt

Editor's Note: This is part 1 of a mini-series on the 2025 EAAMO Conference.
Part 2 | Part 3

By Emily Durning

From left to right: Joanna Wang, Emily Durning, and Ariana Villa