From a Science PhD to Data Scientist!
Ever thought about leaving academia? Have you thought about becoming a data scientist? Why not have a look?
Data science is a relatively new field and it is growing fast. Many companies from small startups such as Taplytics or Framed Data to large companies such as Deutsche Bank and Google have begun recruiting PhD graduates to become data scientists.
They are looking for people with a very quantitative and logical mind to examine data and predict future trends and results, for which a PhD trains you well! They will teach you the basics, from the how to the why, and then have you look at data and make sense of it. (Haven’t we all done that during our PhDs? Making sense of seemingly useless data?)
What employers are looking for are often very similar across all industries. The primary requirements are more often than not strong quantitative skills from a science-based degree. Most employers list preferences for a PhD/MSc in Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, or any other hard science.
Experience in coding is often a requirement, and most employers tend to accept a range of languages, but will list specifics where preferred (e.g. Python or SQL). If you don’t know how to code, there are jobs that don’t require coding experience, so don’t give up just yet!
The third set of criteria nowadays is simulations and modeling, which is something that many science PhDs face, having to predict future trends from current data.
A science PhD will have prepared you well for being a data scientist — so why not have a look?
Now for the juicy bit — we have found some examples of what’s being offered right now if you want to have a quick look! In addition, click here to register your email with us if you want more information regarding jobs via Sparrho.
Our top picks for this week (29th February — 4th March):
Originally published at blog.sparrho.com.
