Three Indigenous interns tap into in the world of data science under a new internship program at the UQ Poche Centre.
The ATLAS Indigenous Primary Care Surveillance Network recently called for applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people keen to develop their data science skillset through an internship with our data team. All levels of background knowledge and capabilities were welcomed, with the program funded to provide training and work placement to strengthen capacity in key Indigenous Data Sovereignty principles.
ATLAS has now welcomed three interns to our pilot program: Denzel Strauss, Sophia Mann, and Te Hau Ackinclose.
Te Hau works with one of our valued partner organisations, the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health (IUIH) and is interested in using data analytics to support quality improvement, taking those learnings and applying the principles to his work across managing a team to deliver better primary healthcare for Mob.
“I am grateful for the opportunities to learn and contribute to the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. As a data intern with the ATLAS project, I hope to help bridge the gap in healthcare and other areas of concern for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” he said.
Sophia has experience with research and is joining the ATLAS team for a three-month placement to formalise her skills in data analytics. “Providing better outcomes and doing work for my community is at the core of my values which align with the overall goals of the UQ Poche Centre.”
Denzel is a university student and cadet with Queensland Health, interested in code development and working the backend of data analytics. “I’m excited about the opportunity with the ATLAS network to improve my skills in data engineering and how they can be used to make a difference in Indigenous health.”
ATLAS Program Manager Dr Clare Bradley believes the contributions of the data interns will be incredibly valuable for the ATLAS program.
“While the interns gain valuable experience and skills in return, through their hands-on experience in data analytics, they contribute to the development of solutions to the very real-world problems the ATLAS network is trying to help address,” she said.
The internships also provide an introduction to academic health research, opportunities to network with other data professionals, and a deeper understanding of how data can be used to address complex challenges. These experiences will benefit their respective careers by providing them with a competitive edge in the job market, enhancing their resumes, preparing them for future careers in health and community services – but most importantly the skills learnt through the ATLAS program will support their contribution to realising better outcomes for community.
