CDT Launch Event: Fostering Collaboration and Inspiring Data-Intensive Science
In May, LIV.INNO's PhD students participated in the CDT Launch Event in Coventry, which marked the beginning of five new Centres for Doctoral Training focused on data-intensive science. The event brought together students, programme directors, STFC representatives, and industrial partners, featuring networking, scientific discussions, and project collaborations.
The event began with a welcoming buffet and a poster display showcasing previous generations of CDT students and their PhD research, highlighting their current careers in the private sector.
Directors presented their plans for the various CDT schemes, showcasing diverse approaches including extensive taught modules and strong industry involvement.
To break the ice, students and staff were challenged to establish a hypothetical exoplanet colony in small teams, fostering collaboration. They created data science-based project proposals to be pitched to junior ministers, focusing on areas such as health, food security, and the climate crisis.
During breaks, industry representatives from various sectors, such as journalism and medical physics, gave talks, providing students with insights into future career possibilities and the ubiquitous nature of data science across industries.
On the final day, teams presented their projects, with topics ranging from leveraging UK health data to optimizing the global supply chain in a changing geopolitical landscape. The winners, including LIV.INNO's Andrew Jones, proposed a project focused on developing a model to identify points of risk in the UK's food security strategy.
The Launch Event's most significant outcome was the opportunity for students to connect with peers from other universities, forming a valuable professional network for the next four years and inspiring diverse research techniques and career paths.