Ada Lovelace Day: A Q&A with DHDP data scientist, Amber Fedynak

Ada Lovelace Day, an international day celebrating the achievements of women in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM), is held each year on the second Tuesday of October. This year, we’re celebrating women in computing with a short Q&A from our resident data scientist, Amber Fedynak.

First, a little about Ada in case you’ve never heard of her.

Born in 1815, Ada Lovelace — aka Augusta Ada King, Countess of Lovelace — was a celebrated English mathematician, active during a time when women were not usually educated in science. Because of her mathematical genius, she very quickly struck up a friendship with early computer pioneer, Charles Babbage, working with him on his Analytical Engine and publishing the first examples of code. She recognized the potential of the Engine far beyond its ability to make calculations, predicting the path for modern computing.

Ada Lovelace Day Q&A - Amber Fedynak

Amber Fedynak is a Data Scientist with the Digital Health & Discovery Platform, focused on applying AI/ML and advanced analytics. Her current role focuses on developing data strategies and workflows that guide data through its lifecycle and prepare it for discovery and analysis through the DHDP platform.

Briefly describe what a data scientist does and what you do in this role for DHDP.

As a data scientist at DHDP, I develop data strategies and workflows that guide data through its lifecycle and prepare it for discovery and analysis through the DHDP platform. My work includes integrating different types of health and research data, supporting clinical data standardization using the OMOP Common Data Model, preparing data for federated learning, and developing and refining machine learning models to support precision medicine.

Why do you think this type of work is important?

Health research generates enormous amounts of valuable data, but it often exists in different formats and across different organizations. Making that data easier to connect and use can help researchers collaborate, answer important questions, and accelerate discoveries. I believe DHDP can help make that possible across Canada and continue the impact of Terry Fox’s legacy by helping advance research and improve health outcomes.

What led you to a career as a data scientist?

My interest in both health sciences and technology led me to data science, a field where I could bring the two together and apply my skills to real-world health challenges. I was fortunate to have many teachers and professors who inspired me throughout my education. Through my work on COVID-19, I experienced firsthand what can happen when researchers from different disciplines come together, share their expertise, and use data to respond quickly to a challenge affecting Canadians. I see that same collaborative spirit at DHDP, bringing together researchers and expertise from across Canada to improve health research and outcomes.

Back in the 19th century, Ada Lovelace faced many challenges as a woman in science, from exclusion to scientific societies and universities to a general erasure and disregard for her work. How have things changed over the last 200 years?

A great deal has changed since Ada Lovelace’s time, but some of the challenges around recognition and attribution remain relevant for women in science and technology today. Work and ideas can still be handed over or carried forward without appropriate credit. At the same time, I’m optimistic about the future as more women build careers in data science, AI, and research and take on increasingly prominent roles in these fields.

What advice would you give women and girls interested in pursuing careers in data science?

Data science is constantly evolving as technology changes, so stay curious and keep learning. Follow where your interests take you and the opportunities you encounter along the way. Think and dream big, set ambitious goals for yourself, and don’t be afraid to pursue them.

Thank you Amber!