Diversifying Professional Roles in Data Science


Policy Briefing by Emma Karoune and Malvika Sharan: The interdisciplinary nature of the data science workforce extends beyond the traditional notion of a “data scientist.” A successful data science team requires a wide range of technical expertise, domain knowledge and leadership capabilities. To strengthen such a team-based approach, this note recommends that institutions, funders and policymakers invest in developing and professionalising diverse roles, fostering a resilient data science ecosystem for the future. 


By recognising the diverse specialist roles that collaborate within interdisciplinary teams, organisations can leverage deep expertise across multiple skill sets, enhancing responsible decision-making and fostering innovation at all levels. Ultimately, this note seeks to shift the perception of data science professionals from the conventional view of individual data scientists to a competency-based model of specialist roles within a team, each essential to the success of data science initiatives…(More)”.