Dear colleagues,
BRICS Astronomy is pleased to announce the Call for Applications for the Data Analytics & AI Training Programme.
This 10-week virtual training programme combines data science and machine learning with practical applications in astronomy. The course is designed to support participants at different skill levels, from beginners to more advanced users, who wish to strengthen their ability to manage, analyse, and interpret large scientific datasets.
Through hands-on learning, participants will gain experience in key areas of data science, Python programming, and machine learning, with a strong emphasis on real-world applications in astronomy. The programme also aims to encourage collaboration and innovation among researchers across the BRICS countries.
Key objectives of the programme include:
- Enhancing skills: Equipping participants with practical tools to manage and analyse scientific data.
- Fostering innovation: Supporting the development of machine learning applications in astronomy and related scientific fields.
- Building community: Creating a collaborative environment for participants to share ideas, challenges, and solutions.
Who should apply?
The programme is intended for early-career professionals, university students, and individuals working in astronomy, particularly those from BRICS member countries, who are interested in strengthening their data science skills. The course will cover Python programming, data structures, control flow, data analysis, handling astronomical datasets, statistical and time-series analysis, machine learning basics for astronomy, and a capstone project.
Requirements:
- Basic knowledge: No prior experience is required for beginners, though an interest in Python, data science, and astronomy is recommended.
- Tools: Access to a personal computer and a stable internet connection to participate in the virtual sessions.
- Commitment: Participants should commit to attending the weekly sessions over the 10 weeks and engaging with course materials and online discussions.
We would greatly appreciate it if you could circulate this call within your networks and relevant mailing lists to reach interested students and early-career researchers.
For more information and application details, please visit: https://bricsastronomy.org/2026dat/
Regards,
Moleboge Lekoloane
BRICS Astronomy
South African Astronomical Observatory
