Big Data Headlines of January 2016

As a data scientist (or aspiring data scientist!), it’s important to keep up with the latest technology news. But that doesn’t mean we can’t have a little fun, right?

Following are links to some of our favorite data-science-related news stories of the New Year, covering topics from the evolution of smiling to statistical analysis in sports and yet more evidence that data science is the hot field today.

Share these articles with colleagues and friends, or simply enjoy them yourself. Happy reading!

Data Mining Reveals How Smiling Evolved During a Century of Yearbook Photos

See how a new machine-learning approach to data mining revealed the evolution of smiles, hairstyles, and face shapes in graduation photographs over the last century. How times have changed! (Technology Review)

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Cleveland Browns Hire Analytics Expert Paul DePodesta of “Moneyball” Fame as Chief Strategy Officer

The man whose statistical wizardry changed the face of baseball now has a new home in Cleveland as the Browns hire Paul DePodesta away from the New York Mets, winners of last year’s National League East title. Whether you like sports, statistical analysis, or both, this is a great read. (Oh, and do watch the movie Moneyball. You won’t be disappointed.) (Cleveland.com)

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Glassdoor Ranks the 25 Best Jobs in America

Of no surprise to us, “Data scientist” ranked #1 on Glassdoor’s list of 25 best jobs in America based on earnings potential, career opportunities, and potential career growth. It also topped Glassdoor’s list of 25 jobs with the best work-life balance last October. (The Washington Post)

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NFL Coaches Are Getting Away With Crimes Against Middle-School Math

For numbers lovers and football fans, here is a fun and thought-provoking analysis of two key coaching decisions that cost Green Bay and Kansas City the playoffs. If you happen to remember the artful strategem that ended the first season of Survivor, you will find this article particularly delicious! (FiveThirtyEight)

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Big Data Uncovered: What Does A Data Scientist Really Do?

Forbes contributor Bernard Marr talks with leading data scientist Dr. Steve Hanks to get an overview of the work a data scientist actually does, and what sort of person is likely to be successful in the field. (Forbes)

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8 Big Data Trends for 2016

From Big Data Analytics News, a small site dedicated to providing the latest news in big data, statistical analysis, business intelligence, data warehousing, and more, we have analysis of these trends for 2016. (Big Data Analytics News)

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Are you looking to start or advance your career in data science? Find out why the online UW Master of Science in Data Science is a great program for aspiring and established data professionals. Call 1-877-895-3276 or email learn@uwex.edu to discuss your options with a friendly enrollment adviser today.