Student Opportunities

We are excited to announce our second round of research grants to support students interested in exploring and developing AI research and creative work. Following our recent announcement of the third round of faculty grants, the Hastings Initiative for AI and Humanity (HIAIH) aims to support projects aligned with our established goals of empowering the Bowdoin community to "critically examine, thoughtfully utilize, and ethically shape AI's trajectory." 

We welcome Student Grant applications that explore any of the three aspects of the Initiative’s goals. We envision projects that are critical of AI, projects that examine the ethics of AI use, and others where students use AI in support of larger goals that are aligned with the Common Good. We look forward to supporting students across a diverse array of academic disciplines, creative practices, and endeavors, but we will not fund grants that ask to buy hardware or for travel money. The funding period will last until June 30, 2027. 

Upon completion of the grant project, all student grant recipients will submit a 1-2 paragraph summary of their experience. By accepting a grant, recipients agree that their project may be featured on the Hastings Initiative website if selected.

Grant Information

Student AI Grant

Maximum funding: $1,000
The goal of these grants is to provide students with opportunities to engage with AI. Examples include, though are not limited to:

  • Supplemental funding of honor theses and independent studies (priority is given to these projects)
  • Collaborating with faculty, staff, and external organizations on AI-related projects

Application Process

The applications for the Student AI Grant require the contact information for a faculty or staff member whom you have asked to submit a short recommendation on your behalf. Once you submit your application, your recommender will receive a separate form with a short set of questions about your candidacy.

To apply for the Student AI Grant, complete this application form. The application requests a description of your project/goals and a budget/timeline. Student AI Grant applications in this round will be due on October 1. We anticipate making announcements shortly after fall break. This is a relatively tight deadline, so consider asking your recommenders as soon as possible.

If you would like to discuss any aspect of your proposal, do not hesitate to send an email to Hastings.Committee@bowdoin.edu or drop in on our postdoc office hours on Mondays from 9-10 in Dudley Coe 107.