Goal

Data Science has applications in all corners of society and research. By showcasing a wide variety of data science projects and research subfields, the student engages with both real-world practice and current developments in data science.

The colloquium enables students to develop knowledge of the wide variety of data science applications and research areas, to become aware of the actual challenges that various companies and governmental organizations face in their data practices, and to learn from practitioners and researchers about challenges and opportunities in a career in data science. Additionally, the colloquium trains students in presenting a research topic and in delivering presentations that disseminate knowledge and educate others on a particular data science topic.

Some of the objectives of the colloquium are the following:

• Understand the main application domains of data science
• Understand key research subfields and methodologies in data science
• Understand the common challenges in data analytics
• Develop the ability to study, synthesize, and present a data science research topic
• Develop skills in delivering clear, structured, and informative research presentations
• Become aware of current trends and emerging topics in data science
• Become aware of the skills, tools, and technologies required for a professional career in data science

Content

The colloquium consists of a 30-minute presentation in the form of a tutorial on the general field of the topic of the student’s thesis. The presentation is aimed at introducing the audience to the thesis research area (what it is, why it is interesting, why it is challenging, etcetera) and at presenting the related works that have been done in it. Additionally, the colloquium includes an Invited Speakers series throughout the academic year, which students are required to attend.

Timeframe

The colloquium presentation should be scheduled immediately after completing Part 1 of your thesis, i.e., when:

• your literature study is complete;
• your main research question (RQ) and sub-research questions (SRQs) are clearly defined; and
• you have a proposed methodology in place (even if not everything is finalized yet; this is perfectly fine at this stage).

This timing ensures that other students can benefit from your work through shared tools, research papers, and ideas that may prove useful across different thesis projects. Importantly, the colloquium also helps you develop your presentation and communication skills, which are key components evaluated during your Master’s thesis defense.

In addition to your own colloquium presentation, you are expected to attend the Invited Speakers series throughout the academic year, where external experts present real-world data science projects and career perspectives. Students are expected to attend approximately 14 invited speaker talks. More details and updates can be found under the Invited Speakers tab.

These talks are intended to support your professional development by helping you build connections, explore different fields of data science, and gain insight into how data science is applied in practice (including industry, research, and public-sector settings). This is particularly useful for identifying internship opportunities, thesis collaborations, and future career paths.