Careers in Data Science (In-Person)

We will hear from a panel of data science professionals, each providing a brief overview of their career choices, working life and the realities of being a data scientist in different organisations, sectors and workplaces.
The panel will then discuss their contrasting career experiences, before participating in an audience Q&A, and joining an optional hour of networking/refreshments.
All students and graduates are welcome – as is anyone else interested in data science. It should be a valuable opportunity to explore careers options, helping to shape aspirations and goals for after graduation.
Likely agenda:
50-minute panel discussion
10-minute break
30-minute panel Q&A
1-hour optional networking with refreshments
A summary of last year's event can be read on the Compass blog: https://compass.blogs.bristol.ac.uk/2025/07/24/student-perspectives-careers-in-data-science/

Undergraduate, Masters and PhD students – as well as anyone considering options for a data science career.

1. Increased knowledge of data science career options, and routes into employment.
2. Insight into the daily working lives of current data science professionals, including recent University of Bristol graduates.
3. Understanding of which elements of your course, and your wider experience, might be most valuable for future career choices.

, Senior Data Scientist,

Ritunjai, or RJ for short, is an alumnus of the University of Bristol, where he completed a Master’s degree in Data Science. He currently works in the Claims Fraud Data Science team at Allianz – one of the UK’s largest general insurers, offering personal and commercial solutions, and part of Allianz Group (the largest property and casualty insurer in the world). RJ focuses on building data science models to identify potentially fraudulent claims and policies. Prior to his current Senior Data Scientist position, he worked for Allianz in both Data Scientist and Graduate Data Scientist roles, and previously undertook a Data Science Internship with LV= Insurance.

, Senior Data Scientist,

Shannon was awarded a PhD in Computational Statistics and Data Science last year from the University of Bristol, following an MMORSE (Master of Mathematics, Operational Research, Statistics and Economics) from University of Warwick. Her PhD, undertaken through the Compass CDT, focused on the statistical design of probabilistic volcanic ash hazard assessments and involved collaborating with the Met Office to improve their ash hazard forecasting system. Her current role focuses on the development and integration of machine learning methods in tools and platforms that help streamline the delivery of planning casework.

Please look at our Code of Conduct for all online and in-person events organised by the JGI.

This event is part of Bristol Data Week 2026, organised by the Jean Golding Institute taking please from Monday 1 June – Friday 5 June 2026. Bristol Data Week is a university-wide umbrella event bringing together academia, industry, community organisations, policy makers and the public to explore the power of data science and AI in addressing real-world challenges.

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Host or Publisher Jean Golding Institute at the University of Bristol