Modern business is driven more and more by digital activity and as a result data is playing a larger role in business decisions. In recent years, this data-driven activity has brought about the creation of the ‘Data Scientist’.
“The key responsibilities of a data scientist involve helping people make good decisions with data and to build smart tools which are powered by data. It’s a blend of computer science, statistics and business knowledge.” Harrison Gilmore, data scientist with Skyscanner.
So what is data science?
Data science involves using automated methods to analyse massive amounts of data and to extract knowledge from them. With such automated methods turning up everywhere from marketing to finance, social media to scientific research, data science is helping to create new branches of science, and influencing areas of social science and the humanities. The trend is expected to accelerate in the coming years as data from mobile sensors, shop loyalty cards, behaviour on the internet and many more places, grows.
“My role includes involvement in both business development and enablement, which means that I support users of the platform in their research or projects.” Harry Peaker, Data Scientist at Aridhia.
As you can see, data science is varied and what your day to day work is will depend on the company you work for and the exact role you are in.
This has been just a brief introduction. To find out more about data science as a career path, see the profiles, job studies and vacancy sites on our website.
Date for your diary – Our Careers in Tech Fair on 14th February is open to students of all disciplines (not just IT!) and year groups: more information here.
