You’re good at what you do and have already made your mark with numerous publications. But as postdoctoral researcher you’re looking for more. Because, you know there are higher levels at which you can make an impact on both science and society. Looking for a new challenge, data scientist Mania Nikolaou joined imec the Netherlands, where the opportunity to excel as research data scientist was a fulfilment of her wish to boost her professional development and career.
“What I really like about working at imec is that here we make real and purposeful contributions to the well-being of the world. Research is paramount to imec. It’s a working environment in which I am daily challenged to give my best and stay the best. It’s no good just being good at what you do. It’s all about staying on top. Knowing about the latest findings or new methodologies and applying them in our research.”
Knowledge leader
“I first got to know about imec when I was at university in Leuven in Belgium. The university and imec work together closely in many areas of research. In fact, imec is one of those organizations that students look up to as knowledge leader and inspiring place to work. I moved to the Netherlands to get a doctorate degree. After working as data scientist for IBM and ABN AMRO, I felt it was time for a career change. I joined imec the Netherlands just over one-and-a-half years ago.”
“Working as data scientist researcher in a team of specialists, my main focus is on the calibration of air quality sensors. I’m also involved in research on secure proximity. It’s great to see how everybody contributes: each from his or her own domain. My role has much to do with algorithms. But, we’re encouraged to come up with new ideas and insights. Not only based on our own know-how, but by combining the collective strength and insights of the team. It makes the research we do hold the promise of being transformative for society as a whole. It’s why I find this work so exciting and meaningful.”
Contributing to science and society
“Our research is intended to truly make this world a better place to live in. To achieve this goal, we share our combined knowledge and collaborate closely with partners from academia and the industry. Because we’re busy with such cutting-edge research, it’s important to go out there and tell our story. Publications, patents and presenting your work at conferences is all part of the game.”
“From my own career point of view, getting results published or even applying for a patent shows what I contribute to science and society. It makes me feel proud when my work is recognized by my peers. And seeing as the work of a data scientist is getting ever more important, it’s important for me to be able to show my contribution to the field. Hopefully it will help me to continue getting the challenging projects I am like doing, as well as to grow my role. It’s great to work for an organization such as imec which fully supports me in fulfilling these ambitions.”
Published on:
24 March 2020
