About
Carlos Fernando Garcia Padilla (CDS MS'25), a current MS in Data Science student with a background in bioinformatics. Carlos went to UC San Diego for undergrad, and was drawn to data science for its transformative potential. He chooses BU MSDS because he has a passion for using data to drive impact across fields.
Tell us a little bit about the projects you did before coming into the MSDS program
Before coming to BU for the MSDS program, I was a Bioinformatician at the Center for Epigenomics at the University of California, San Diego. Here, under the supervision of Dr Zhu and Dr Bintu, I ran spatial transcriptomics experiments with one eventually leading to a publication on Nature.
How did you become interested in data science?
I became interested in Data Science because of the impact this discipline can have on other fields. I can choose to work in many sectors and have a real impact, all through data-driven decisions.
What made you choose BU and MSDS?
I chose BU because of Boston’s impressive Biotech scene and its beautiful architecture (I am in love with the jenga building). As for the MSDS program, I decided to enroll in it because I wanted to supplement my Bioinformatics skills with a heavier computational skillset, which I have been able to get here under the great faculty here at BU.
What was one thing you learnt the most while studying at MSDS?
I learned that even when you don’t have a clue as to what you are doing, taking the first step and getting your hands dirty is the most important step to solving a problem. It tends to be the case that you can solve most problems by simply being insistent and persevere until you find a solution.
Any advice to future MSDS students?
Don't be afraid to challenge your professors. Data Science is a field where we must verify facts and make sure things are logically sound. There is no such thing as a perfect answer.
In what field have you decided to utilize your data science knowledge?
I am currently interning at a Biotech company in Seaport, where I will be a Data Science Intern. For future steps, I would like to remain in the biotech scene as It would be the perfect combination of my Bachelors Degree in Bioinformatics with my Masters degree in Data Science.
