Python Week

A one-week self-study challenge, every January.

Pledge a week to learning Python for computational science. Work through curated tutorials at your own pace, with community support and motivation to keep you going.

Python for computational science, for everyone

Python is the gateway into computational science — but for many, the path is blocked by not knowing where to start, limited time, or a lack of accessible, affordable options. Python Week exists to change that.
  • Free and open to all levels, from complete beginner to experienced coder
  • Asynchronous, self-paced tutorials you can work through on your own schedule
  • Community support through Reddit discussions, regional events, and webinars
  • Motivational emails and tips delivered at key points throughout the week to keep you on track
  • 1 in 5 participants go on to apply to Neuromatch Academy courses or as Teaching Assistants, where Python is a prerequisite

Python Week 2027 is coming
30 January to 7 February

Two weekends and a week full of learning! The countdown has started to Python Week for Computational Science 2027.

Join us for Python Week 2027

It's free, it's flexible, and the community has your back.

Your Pledge

One week, one goal.

Commit to dedicating the week to building your Python skills for computational science. All levels welcome; from complete beginner to seasoned coder. 

Your Pace

Self-directed learning.

Work through curated tutorials at whatever pace suits you. Fit it around your life; mornings, evenings, whenever works for you! 

Your Community

You're not alone.

Join a global community of learners who are also self-learning and upskilling. . Ask questions, share progress, stay motivated.

Your Tutorials

Built for every level.

Commit to dedicating the week to building your Python skills for computational science. No prior experience needed — just show up.

Join our newsletter and learn when the 2027 Pledge opens!

    Explore our Python open access resources

    Code-First, Hands-On Learning

    Workshop 1

    • Learn basic operations with Python variables, control flow, plotting, and take a sneak peek at np.array, the workhorse of scientific computation in Python.

    Workshop 2

    • Introduction to spikes in our LIF neuron and evaluate the refractory period’s effect in spiking dynamics.
    • Saturday, 30 JanuaryPython Week begins

      Your welcome email arrives with everything you need to get started.
    • Monday, 1 FebruaryCheck-in

      Look for a reminder email with tips for the week, and join the discussion on Reddit to share how it's going.
    • Wednesday, 3 FebruaryMidweek panel webinar

      Join our panel on learning Python, using AI in your learning, tips, and what comes next.
    • Friday, 5 FebruaryCheck-in

      Look for an encouragement email for the final weekend, and check in on Reddit to share your progress or ask questions.
    • Sunday, 7 FebruaryPython Week ends

    • Monday, 8 FebruaryWrap-up and survey

      Tell us how your week went in a short survey, and find out what's next.
    • Wednesday, 10 FebruaryNeuromatch Academy applications open

      Ready for the next step? Put your new skills to use and apply.

    Measuring our impact

    Here's what our first Python Week looked like, by the numbers.
    1943

    Participants


    Pledged to dedicate a week to self-learning and upskilling Python skills.
    61

    Countries


    Represented amongst those that participated.
    96%

    met their learning goals


    From beginner to advance, take the week to upskill and reach your goals.
    95%

    Plan to return


    Showing strong enthusiasm for the Python Week and future upskilling.

    Read our 2026 Python Week White Paper

    Our 2026 event was a proof of concept — and it worked.

    A global community of learners showed up, pledged their week, and proved there's real appetite for structured, self-directed learning in Python for computational neuroscience. 

    Join us for Python Week 2027

    Join our newsletter and learn when the 2027 Pledge opens!

      Would your organization like to get involved?

      In 2026, participants from 61 countries joined Python Week. The top request from our community was regional, time-zone-friendly events and study groups. That's where you come in!

      We're looking to collaborate with organizations to host regional events, webinars, and workshops during Python Week; 30 January to 7 February 2027. Your organization can help make Python for computational science more accessible to your community. We'll support you with promotion and amplify your event to our audience. A win for everyone! 

      Hear from past Python Week participants

      “…gave me the sense of discipline and responsibility to refreshen my python skills…”

      Nigeria

      “Python Week supported my goal of learning more about Neuroscience and Tech by teaching me to implement models like the LIF neuron using NumPy.”

      Mexico

      “The exercises are motivating as you sort of hit the ground running, I’m enjoying implementing the LIF neuron.”

      France

      “Python for Computational Science Week strengthened my understanding of scientific problem solving using Python and improved my confidence in applying logic.”

      India

      “…gave me a hint as to how python can be applied in neuroscience, rather than just randomly learning python programming from a YouTube channel.”

      Nigeria

      “I was surprised at how much core neuroscience I learned as well as getting my first dive into NumPy.”

      USA

      “It helped me find my fundamental weaknesses to work on them before Neuromatch Academy.”

      Egypt

      “Python for Computational Science Week helped support my learning goals by providing a clear timeline of when I wanted to get things done.”

      USA

      “This gave me that extra motivation I needed to complete some of the Neuromatch courses that I have been meaning to work on but never been able to find the time.”

      Canada