If you’re interested in working in data science and working in the science industry but are unsure of your options after gaining your qualification, here are a few suggestions.
Astronomy
After gaining a data science degree from an institution such as Kettering University, you could use data science and data analytics in hard sciences such as astronomy. One example of this is in telescopes which catalogue data about objects in the sky, to provide an insight into the formation of the universe.
Another example is the way machine learning has been used to divide galaxies into groups by appearance. This is done using a tool called wndchrm, which works by analyzing thousands of features from each image. Without the use of data science, this would be impossible for anybody to analyze as accurately.
Biology
Wndchrm is also used to analyze biological images. Data analytics can also be used in biology to recognize patterns, make predictions based on this, and contribute significantly to research and the decision-making process.
Data science has many uses in biology from providing the statistics to help biologists plan their experiments to analyzing results to form a conclusion.
Genetics and genomics
Data science plays a major role in genetics and genomics. The data gathered is often used to decipher sequences in DNA. With expert analysis, this data can detect or predict the likelihood of different diseases or health conditions. Knowing this can help to prevent or reduce the risk of these.
Medical
Data science and data analytics help the medical industry. The information gathered, and analyzed by scientists and analysts, helps provide the best treatments for different medical conditions, predict potential problems and avoid health issues which may be preventable, if caught in time.
Developing drugs
Data analytics is a big part of discovering and creating drugs. The information on symptoms and currently available drugs shows which conditions can be treated with these drugs and helps to develop new drugs tailored to specific health conditions. Having large amounts of data analyzed with less human intervention means discoveries happen quicker than they would otherwise.
In-lab simulations often mean that even if human trials are carried out, the risks and outcomes will have been analyzed thoroughly before reaching the human trials stage.
Psychology
Soft sciences like psychology rely heavily on data science. Psychologists are always carrying out experiments and performing research using qualitative and quantitative data. The data is used to give a fuller picture of challenges faced by groups and individuals, why people behave the way they do in specific settings, and so much more. On a deeper level, it can delve into why these things are happening, and open a wider discussion. This information can be used to draw attention to specific issues and enact change in society. For example; if people are behaving in a certain way, which could potentially lead them to harm, understanding their reasons for this can help alter the approach in promoting a change in their behavior.
Data science and data analytics are used in many aspects of the science industry; from hard sciences to soft science. If you’re interested in working in this industry, you will encounter a wide range of roles where you can apply your skills.
