Episode 8: The Road from Data Science to Data Policymaking
This new DSMINDSETS podcast episode is hosted by Chang Sun and we invited a special guest - Pedro Hernández. Pedro has recently been appointed as the Faculty Advisor for Research Data Management and Data Policies at the Faculty of Science and Engineering. He is part of the Data Steward committee at the Maastricht University Library, where he co-coordinates activities related to digital infrastructure and professionalisation of data stewardship.
Introductions
Previously Pedro was an applied Data Scientist in the Institute of Data Science, where he implemented a variety of Data Science technologies such as Data Warehouses, Data Visualisation, or Statistical Libraries. He is originally from Merida, Mexico where he studied Actuarial Science, he moved to Mexico City to study a Master in Data Science and spent some years as Data Scientist in different sectors, such as government, bank, insurance and health.
DS Education and work experience
Pedro shared with us his study in Mexico and how he became a data scientist at UM. He thinks it is important to learn different data science skills, to know various types of data, and keep updated yourself to the new technologies. He also shared his experience in working in industry. He shared his point on the impact of data science technologies or decision making systems on people’s lives. He also talked about the differences he experienced working in industry and academia.
As a data scientist for research
Pedro shared his experience in collaborating with researchers from different backgrounds in multidisciplinary projects such Law, business and Finance. In addition to research, Pedro is also involved in teaching data science in the Global Study Bachelor program. He emphasises on the importance of educating next generation students to have basic data science skills.
As a data steward at the Library
Recently, Pedro became a data steward from a data scientist. As a part of the committee of generic Data Stewards at the library, Pedro shared what a data steward does for UM and for each faculty, and what a data steward can help with research projects and research data management. He also shared with us the policymaking for research data management.
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