The MIDAS AI Sandbox helps University of Michigan researchers explore AI tools, build practical skills and discover new ways to apply AI in their work. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to advance your research, explore hands-on learning opportunities, practical guides, AI research applications and expert support to help you put AI into practice.
Looking for a hands-on workshop for your research group?
Learn how to bring the AI Sandbox to your team.
AI Knowledge Base
This section provides brief, practical guides for applying AI in research. Each guide focuses on a specific task or method and includes clear, step-by-step instructions. Content is intended for researchers looking to understand and apply AI tools without needing deep technical backgrounds.
AI Digest Newsletter
The AI Digest is a short newsletter with updates on tools, techniques, and examples of research applications. It is written for an academic audience and focuses on information that is useful, relevant, and easy to scan. This page includes the most recent issues and an archive of past entries.
AI Journeys
This collection features “AI Journeys” presentations at the 2026 AI in Science and Engineering Symposium, organized by the Michigan Institute for Data and AI in Society (MIDAS). In these presentations, domain scientists as well as AI experts shared with the audience their explorations of using AI to advance domain research.
Ask the Sandbox
This allows researchers to submit questions about using AI in their work. Inquiries may be technical, conceptual, or exploratory. The Sandbox team will respond with options for one-on-one meetings, resources, or referrals where appropriate. All University of Michigan researchers are welcome to use this form.
Submit a question: [email protected]