Data Science Receives Largest-Ever Single Grant From Jefferson Trust

The School of Data Science is the recipient of two Jefferson Trust grants, including the largest-ever single award in the Trust's history. A grant was awarded in the amount of $298,693 for "Evaluating Collaboratory Cultures," a project led by Dean Phil Bourne. A second grant of $123,314 was awarded for "The Sports Science and Analytics Collective," led by Assistant Professor of Data Science Natalie Kupperman.

The Jefferson Trust Board of Trustees announced it has awarded nearly $1.4 million to 14 new projects and programs across the University of Virginia.

“The decision-making process was extremely difficult,” shares Amy Bonner, Director of Grants for the Trust. “This grant cycle was record-breaking in terms of dollars sought and exceptional ideas. With this cohort, we have taken another great step forward, toward our vision of seeing every great idea at UVA come to fruition.”

The Trust awarded its largest-ever single grant to the School of Data Science. Researchers will study the practices surrounding “collaboratories,” or interdisciplinary research, making UVA a national leader in the field and bringing broad resources to the University itself. Sustainability was a key theme this year, with other grant themes centered around community engagement, student experience, and cutting-edge research.

Evaluating Collaboratory Cultures: $298,693
The School of Data Science will research collaboration and promote the findings to illustrate how more collaborative groups and cultures can be built across Grounds and throughout academia.

The Sports Science and Analytics Collective: $123,314
The collective blends research and practical application in sports, healthy living, and musculoskeletal health to accelerate efforts in research, collaboration, and student education.

The Jefferson Trust is a donor-led initiative of the UVA Alumni Association.