Meet A Data Scientist-Tim Norris

If you have ever wondered what data scientists do, the University of Miami Institute for Data Science and Computing (IDSC) is giving you an opportunity to learn about this important, multifaceted profession. On December 9, at 4:00 PM, IDSC is hosting the third in the series of “Meet a Data Scientist” talks with Data Scientist Tim Norris, PhD.

As a Data Scientist with a joint appointment between the Library and IDSC, Tim’s interest lies in studying the flow of data throughout the entire research cycle from inception of the research question to the publication and preservation of the results.

“This exciting new series will introduce the people behind the data, their lives, interests, and career choices,” said Nick Tsinoremas, PhD, IDSC director, vice provost for research computing and data, and professor of biochemistry and molecular biology, computer science, and health informatics. “This is a great opportunity to understand how these professionals use data to solve grand challenges in their respective fields.”

Here is the schedule of “Meet a Data Scientist” virtual talks held on Zoom from 4:00-5:00 PM. These events are free and open to the public.

Alberto Cairo, November 4, 2020 | (Post-event summary)
Ben Kirtman , November 18, 2020 | Post-event summary)
Tim Norris, December 9, 2020 | (Post-event summary)
Ken Goodman, January 14, 2021 |  (Post-event video and summary here.)
Yelena Yesha, January 27, 2021 |  (Post-event video and summary here.)

Tim’s own research focuses on geographic information systems (GIS) and geospatial data visualizations (cartography), participatory research methodologies, and how the sustainable governance of human, natural and informational resources intersect. The outcome of this work is to better understand the curation, management and governance of data resources and assets in research institutions at scales from local to global. This work forms part of a larger inter-disciplinary effort to provide data management services and support for digital scholarship at the University of Miami and beyond.

Prior to arriving at the University of Miami Dr. Norris’ doctoral work focused on community based mapping and participatory research methods as tools to mediate public/private relationships centered on the management and governance of natural resources in the global south. Tim holds a PhD in Environmental Studies (a.k.a. geography and a little ecology) from the University of California Santa Cruz; his doctoral work was funded by the National Science Foundation and the National Geographic Society. In another life, Dr. Norris was  a GIS technician and data curator for the University of California Industry-University Cooperative Research Program.