Call for Applications: BAWG Hackathon 2026
Are you a postgraduate student with a passion for data science? Do you want to apply your skills to real research problems while collaborating with peers and competing on a global stage? BRICS Astronomy invites applications for the BAWG Data Science Hackathon 2026.
About the hackathon
BRICS Astronomy will host a 2-day hackathon, alongside the BAWG conference in India. Dates and venues are from 29 – 30 October 2026. Participants will work in teams on one of two research challenge problems, using data science methods to address real scientific questions. Teams from different regions will take part in a broader international hackathon effort. All participants will use the IUCAA cloud computing system, which will provide the computational resources needed to develop and test solutions.
Hackathon challenge problems
Problem 1: Classification of Variable Star Lightcurves
The goal of this challenge is to explore several time-series classification tools to classify variable star lightcurves and compare them. The participants are encouraged to explore various machine learning and deep learning techniques and algorithms (viz. 1D CNN, RNN, LSTM, etc.) for time series classification. The model input can be either direct lightcurve data points or features calculated on those lightcurves. Final evaluation will be based on model performance and overall presentation.
Problem 2: Data-Driven Optical Calibration of Aditya-L1/SUIT Using Multi-Instrument Solar Observations
The objective of this challenge is to explore data-driven optical calibration of UV data from SUIT onboard Aditya-L1 using multi-instrument solar observations. By leveraging structural similarities between SUIT, IRIS, and SDO/AIA images, participants will infer the effective in-flight point spread function (PSF) and assess its scientific impact on solar UV studies from SUIT.
Who should apply?
We are looking for motivated applicants who:
- Are currently enrolled in postgraduate studies (Honours, Master’s, and PhD). Exceptional final-year undergraduate students may also be considered.
- Have strong Python programming skills and are comfortable working on the command line.
- Are eager to participate actively and contribute fully to the hackathon experience.
- Are you willing to spend time reviewing the provided materials and notebooks independently before the event?
- Can submit a recommendation letter confirming their Python skills and availability for the hackathon.
What you will need
- A laptop for participation, although access to a computer lab may also be available.
- Time to prepare in advance using the materials that will be shared before the hackathon.
Application timeline
- Applications close: 31 July 2026
- Application outcome: 31 August 2026
- Preparation materials: Notebooks and other resources will be shared two weeks before the event.
Why apply?
This is an opportunity to work on meaningful scientific problems, strengthen your data science skills, and collaborate with talented peers in a dynamic hackathon environment. If you are excited by research, coding, and problem-solving, we encourage you to apply.
Join our community
The BAWG Data Science Hackathon is the first step in building a community of students and researchers who are passionate about applying data science to scientific challenges. Beyond participating in the 2026 hackathon, we aim to create a network of individuals who are interested in supporting and hosting future hackathons within their institutions, regions, and countries. Members of this community will have opportunities to stay connected, share knowledge, collaborate on future activities, and help grow the reach of data science within the BRICS Astronomy community. Over time, community members may be invited to contribute to the planning and delivery of future hackathons, workshops, and training events.
If you are interested in becoming part of this community and potentially helping to organise future hackathons, please indicate your interest by selecting “Yes” on the last question in the application form.
Please register for the conference as well.
