UC Berkeley announces data science pipeline program for students

UC Berkeley announced the Data Collaboratives program Sept. 10, allowing students to use data science to solve real-world problems. The program was initially discussed near the end of the 2018 spring semester, and is intended to create a pipeline connecting students to data-driven projects. The goal of the program, according to Anthony Suen, director of programs at the UC Berkeley Division of Data Sciences, is to “turn data into a social impact.” “We’re not just purely seeking knowledge,” Suen said. “We’re trying to impact policy on a level regarding issues like water and public health.” The program was funded in part by Schmidt Futures, a philanthropic initiative dedicated to the development of science and technology, according to a campus press release. Investment management firm Two Sigma was also an early supporter of program, according to the press release.