Tag Archives: Data Science

The PhD experience: becoming an independent researcher

Leave a reply

Seongil Han has recently completed his PhD in financial data analytics with FinTech in the Department of Computer Science and Information Systems. He shares his Birkbeck experience.

Seongil at the theatre in London

Why did you choose Birkbeck for your PhD?

Birkbeck has an excellent reputation for research. Furthermore, the Department of Computer Science and Information Systems is one of the oldest computing departments in the UK and worldwide. Because of this long academic background as well as the excellent reputation, I chose Birkbeck to broaden my research experience for PhD.

What were some of the highlights of studying in the Department of Computer Science and Information Systems?

The department provided a world-leading research lab (Birkbeck Institute for Data Analytics, BIDA) for data science with domain expertise in both theoretical and applied computer science. In addition, the research of BIDA is focused on interdisciplinary research. This environment enriched the quality of my interdisciplinary research as well as research experience.

Could you explain your PhD research for a non-expert?

My work is focused on financial data analytics using AI-based modelling within FinTech. In particular, I conducted the research with the primary objective of improving the explainable aspect as well as predictive performance of credit scoring systems, utilising big data-driven analytics and machine/deep learning techniques.

How has the PhD supported your future career?

I am currently an Analytics Manager (Data Scientist) in the AI & Big Data Analytics Team in LG Display Co. (Headquarters, South Korea). The interdisciplinary research experience based on AI-based modelling and data science for PhD broadened my academic background (MSc Financial Mathematics, BSc Mathematics, King’s College London) to the role of data scientist in the real-world, solving problems driven by digital transformational (DX) industrial environments.

What advice would you give to someone considering a PhD or just starting out on this journey?

The system of learning and researching for PhD at Birkbeck encourages a free and open exchange of views and ideas between supervisors, experts and students as well as providing students with great guidance and support. Please feel free to discuss any points about your research with your colleagues! Then you will be trained as an independent researcher.

Further Information

 

Share

10 Reasons to Study in the Department of Economics, Mathematics and Statistics

Leave a reply

1. Our students benefit from nearly 200 years’ experience in teaching and research 

We’re celebrating 50 years of the Department of Economics, Mathematics and Statistics this year, but Birkbeck’s world-class economics and mathematics training began as early as 1826. 

2. With academics who are working on some of society’s biggest problems 

From the ageing population to atmospheric pollution and the economic argument for the four-day week. 

3. We’re one of the few departments to combine Mathematics, Statistics and Economics all in one place 

From the most abstract mathematics to applied economics and statistical data science, our interdisciplinary department is a great place to experiment with new ideas. 

4. When you study with us, you’ll join a close-knit community of learners 

Whether teaching is delivered online or face-to-face, our commitment to the student experience remains the same and we’re so proud of what our students achieve. 

5. And go on to join some of the UK’s highest-earning alumni 

Our graduates in economics and mathematics earn 29% and 33% more than the British average for graduates of these programmes. 

6. Maybe that’s because we’re in the business of training some of the nation’s top economists 

The Bank of England, HM Treasury and HSBC are just some of the organisations that our students go on to work for. 

7. Our academic support equips you with the tools to meet your goals 

As well as a dedicated tutor to build quantitative skills, you’ll have access to support on essay-writing, time management and finding your feet at university. 

8. With a flexible study model that will give you a head start on your career 

Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself full-time in your degree, or gain the academic skills to progress in your career, we have a study option that will help you get there. 

9. Our Bloomsbury campus is a stone’s throw away from the City of London and the Alan Turing Institute – the UK’s national institute for data science and artificial intelligence. 

Our central location makes juggling commitments or looking for work experience more manageable. 

10. And we’ll continue to push the boundaries of our field 

In 2020, our Professor Sarah Hart became the first female Gresham Professor of Geometry in the position’s 423-year history. What will your contribution be? 

Share