Accelerating and Scaling Biological Sciences with AI

The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) invites proposals to build large-scale AI/ML models that cannot be created with conventional university resources. CZI is the only philanthropic organization to fund and build one of the largest computing systems dedicated to nonprofit life sciences research in the world. CZI’s cluster is optimized for AI and machine learning training at scale and comprises 1,024 Nvidia H100 GPUs in an NVIDIA DGX SuperPOD configuration with access to VAST fast data storage.

Through competitive allocation of computing power on CZI’s high-performance computing cluster, we will support inspired and cutting-edge model building that will power new approaches to biological discovery. Priority will be given to proposals that aim to create models that align with CZI’s work to build virtual cells, but all proposals relating to CZI’s mission to cure, prevent, or manage all diseases by the end of the century will be considered. Clear articulation of goals, significance & innovation, approach, and anticipated outcomes will be required, along with a project plan. Preliminary data will be accepted, but not required. Importantly, responsive projects will be scoped so as to require allocation of at least 96 GPUs.

Applications will be accepted from domestic (based in the United States) nonprofit organizations, including public and private institutions, such as colleges, universities, hospitals, laboratories, and government agencies. For-profit organizations are not eligible to apply. All resource allocation grants will be awarded to institutions, not individuals. We anticipate a rolling application process, during which applications will be reviewed monthly, January through May 2025, until all GPU resource is allocated.

This grant is for an allocation of CZI’s GPU resource (minimum request of 96 GPU). This is an in-kind award; there are no cash funds, financial contributions, or fees of any kind associated with the award.