Theme: Geometrization of AI (TDAI Speaker Series)
Speaker: Kristina Markel, The Ohio State University
Date & Time: Tuesday, March 24, 2026 · 11:00 AM–12:00 PM (ET)
Location: Pomerene Hall Room 350 (Project Zone)
Food: Light refreshments provided
Host: Subhadeep Paul, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Statistics; Co-Director, Foundations of Data Science and AI, Translational Data Analytics Institute
As funding landscapes for artificial intelligence research continue to evolve, understanding emerging opportunities from private foundations and philanthropic organizations is increasingly important for faculty pursuing impactful work in AI and advanced computing.
In this seminar, Kristina Markel will provide an overview of Schmidt Sciences and Coefficient Giving (formerly Open Philanthropy), including their missions, strategic priorities, and approaches to supporting AI-focused research. The talk will highlight key initiatives such as Schmidt’s AI & Advanced Computing Center and Coefficient’s Navigating Transformative AI program.
Attendees will gain insight into current and upcoming funding opportunities, along with practical guidance on how to align research proposals with funder priorities. The session will also include a live demonstration of Corporate and Foundation Engagement’s private funding opportunity database, offering a valuable resource for identifying and pursuing external support.
Through this presentation, faculty and researchers will be better equipped to navigate the private funding ecosystem and position their work for success in a rapidly advancing AI research landscape.
About the Speaker:
Kristina Markel serves as Senior Director of Foundation Engagement at The Ohio State University, where she leads efforts to connect faculty with strategic funding opportunities from major foundations and philanthropic organizations. Her work focuses on advancing research initiatives by aligning institutional priorities with external funding partners and supporting faculty in securing competitive awards.