Gendered perspectives of data science

About the Project

This is an open call for research proposals related to gendered perspectives of data science.

Diversity is vital to data science, given its crucial role in understanding the world, communicating information, and guiding behaviour. A diverse workforce is more likely to identify bias and thus mitigate historical and human bias to be integrated in the algorithmic design (Centre for Data Ethics and Innovation, 2020).

There is an increase in demand for specialist data skills across employment sectors (Sigelman et al., 2022; Fearns, Harriss and Lally, 2023). However, recruitment continues to be a challenge, both in the employment sector and within universities.

Compounding this challenge is the difficulty of recruiting women and other ethnic minority backgrounds into the field. Studies have found disparities in gender representation, seniority, attrition and self-confidence in AI and data science workforce (Young, Wacjcman and Sprejer, 2023). In addition, data science also has an image problem, perceived as theoretical, low-impact and promoting an unappealing work culture (Duranton et al., 2020). It is important to identify the role gender play in these issues to promote a more diverse workforce.

The purpose of this PhD is to explore gendered perspectives of data science to identify barriers to recruitment and retainment. We are interested in research questions that seek to understand the interplay of gender with values, motivations and belonging in data science.

Academic qualifications

A second class honours degree or equivalent qualification in Computing Science.

English language requirement

IELTS score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted.

Essential attributes

• Competent in basic statistics and qualitative research techniques
• Good written and oral communication skills
• Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project
• Good time management

APPLICATION CHECKLIST

• Completed application form
• CV
• 2 academic references, using the Postgraduate Educational Reference Form (download)
• Research project outline of 2 pages (list of references excluded). The outline may provide details about:
  1. Background and motivation of the project. The motivation, explaining the importance of the project, should be supported also by relevant literature. You can also discuss the applications you expect for the project results.
  2. Research questions or objectives.
  3. Methodology: types of data to be used, approach to data collection, and data analysis methods.
  4. List of references.
• Statement no longer than 1 page describing your motivations and fit with the project.
• Evidence of proficiency in English (if appropriate)

To be considered, the application must use

• the advertised title as project title

For informal enquiries about this PhD project, please contact Dr Khristin Fabian - K.Fabian@napier.ac.uk