Institute for Computing, Data and Information Sciences (ICDIS) to meet growing demand in tech fields

The University of Akron (UA) announces the launch of the Institute for Computing, Data and Information Sciences (ICDIS), a new academic initiative designed to prepare students for high-demand careers in computing, data science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and information systems. Housed within the Office of Academic Affairs to address the needs of a variety of departments and majors, the ICDIS represents an investment in the future of technology-driven education and interdisciplinary collaboration.

The ICDIS will unite faculty, students and resources from across the University to advance research, foster innovation and enrich academic programming. This centralized structure will improve coordination of in-demand degree offerings and expand access to strategic technological resources such as:

• The Musson Industrial Control Systems (ICS) Testbed – A state-of-the-art cybersecurity facility for hands-on research and professional training.
• The Ohio Cyber Range Institute (OCRI) Regional Programming Center – A virtual environment for hosting cyber exercises and competitions to enhance emergency preparedness and cyber incident response capabilities.

“The ICDIS opens the door for students to access transformative experiences in computing and information sciences,” said Dr. John Wiencek, executive vice president and provost. “Through cutting-edge research opportunities, internships and collaboration with industry partners, students will be better prepared to thrive in the rapidly evolving tech workforce.”

“This Institute will allow our students and faculty to work together across departments in ways we’ve never done before and to experience ways that their major area of study intersects with other majors and the real-world application of what they are studying,” added Dr. Linda Saliga, professor and chair of the Department of Mathematics. “For example, mathematics is at the core of data science, machine learning and cybersecurity, and this collaboration will help students see how theory connects directly to real-world problem-solving.”

The Institute’s founding is supported by an endowment from the R.C. Musson & Katharine M. Musson Charitable Foundation. The Institute will be led by a dedicated director, a new position funded through this endowment. Reporting directly to the provost, the director will spearhead strategic growth efforts, build partnerships, secure external funding and support curriculum innovation across disciplines.

A key goal of the Institute is to promote collaborative and efficient use of shared resources like the ICS Testbed and OCRI as well as provide students with easier access to in-demand courses that are common across the related fields. An advisory committee will ensure that input from faculty, students and external stakeholders continues to shape the Institute’s direction and impact.

Through these combined efforts, the ICDIS will offer current and incoming students broader exposure to career paths they may not have previously considered. From advanced computing and AI to data analytics and cyber defense, students will gain access to emerging fields, research initiatives and hands-on learning that position them for long-term success.

Media contact: Cristine Boyd; cboyd@uakron.edu; 330-972-6476