Saba Abdian on the power of storytelling in science

We are pleased to feature a guest post from Saba Abdian, an EngD student at JADS, who recently represented JADS at Talking Science 2024. In this blog, Saba shares insights from the event, where she presented her final project on supply chain resilience, and reflects on the importance of storytelling in data science. She also introduces her new startup, Datory, inspired by her journey at JADS.

“I am excited to share my recent experience at Talking Science 2024, held on June 11, 2024. It was an honor to be among the 10 nominated researchers from Eindhoven University of Technology, presenting a 3-minute pitch on my final data science project at JADS for my Engineering Doctorate (EngD) research. This opportunity was particularly unique as it required presenting without slides and relying solely on props, which significantly transformed my approach to communicating my research.

In my presentation, I highlighted the RESTRETCH consortium project, focusing on the importance of a data-driven approach to supply chain management in mitigating the impacts of large-scale disruptions such as COVID-19. Our collaboration with industry leaders, including Vos Logistics and Datacation, along with knowledge partners JADS and Wageningen University, involves leveraging real-world data to develop resilient solutions for potential disruptions.

As the sole participant from JADS, this experience underscored the power of storytelling in bridging the gap between technical expertise and public understanding. I have come to realize that data science extends beyond technical skills; effective communication with a broader audience is equally essential for a project’s success.

From the training sessions at Talking Science 2024, I derived two key insights: the significance of simplicity in storytelling and the value of authenticity on stage. Using simple, but tangible stories is key to engaging a general audience and highlighting the real-world implications of your research. Furthermore, maintaining authenticity allows for a stronger connection with the audience, enhancing the relatability and impact of the message.

During this event, I also shared an anecdote with the audience: The EngD in Data Science program at JADS was a game-changer for me. With a background in International Marketing Management and diverse industry experience, the EngD program has been a perfect complement to my skill set, inspiring me to launch my startup company, “Datory” in June 2024. Datory, a blend of ‘data’ and ‘story,’ is dedicated to uncovering the untold stories of data science and scientists. Through real-world examples and inspiring narratives, our goal is to empower the next generation of data scientists, with a particular focus on supporting women in the field.

I strongly believe that participating in such events is vital for showcasing the valuable work being done at JADS and for building stronger community connections. I highly recommend that our PhD and EngD colleagues at JADS engage in similar events to highlight the impactful work we are advancing in the field of data science.”