The Social Observatories Coordinating Network is planning a conference in the Washington, DC, area in March 2016 to highlight research programs that demonstrate novel linkages between at least two distinct data sources, types, or modalities and answer an important social scientific question.

Examples of novel data linkages include new combinations of survey and administrative data, community indicators and individual observational data, and social media and economic indicators. Submissions must relate empirical results from a study that addresses a specific research question.

Papers will be presented at a conference in March 2016 and submitted for an edited volume. Selected participants will have conference expenses paid and receive a modest honorarium upon successful chapter completion.

Interested researchers should submit a 3–5-page paper prospectus to Sandra Hofferth at hofferth@umd.edu by August 20. Submitters will be notified by October 15.