Dr. Nives Skunca

In the work I am involved in after finishing my PhD, I am further developing my technical skills through the use of advanced tools for data analysis, as well as being more involved in the courses at ETH Zürich—lectures, exercises, and examinations. My work was recognized with an opportunity to co-edit a book on a topic closely related to my PhD.

My PhD was at the intersection of biology and computer science. In oral presentations, I made technical jargon accessible; in written communication, I described my work in detail; in both cases, I defended my ideas in front of a critical audience. I worked with large datasets and I used tools for statistical analysis and visualization. I refereed in scientific journals. I gave feedback to my peers. As a teaching assistant, I presented complex topics, organized practical sessions, and student evaluations.

My work at the Rudjer Boskovic Institute included the application of advanced machine learning algorithms on large biological datasets. I was introduced to data gathering and analysis, as well as to developing evaluation frameworks and grant proposal writing.

My position consisted of extending the work I started for my diploma thesis. I started using a UNIX-based Operating System, in which I am now an advanced user. Additionally, this experience was invaluable in shaping my critical thinking and my writing skills. The final product of this effort was a publication I co-authored. As a teaching assistant, I was involved in holding practical sessions for students.