Simon Gillings

Principal Data Scientist

Contact

Simon works with colleagues across BTO to provide strategic leadership, analytical input and design input into the development of data products for internal and external audiences.

Interests & Responsibilities

Simon's main interest is in developing methods and applications that turn BTO data into accessible, robust and visually appealing products for different audiences and stakeholders.  He is working with colleagues in the Surveys and IS teams to produce new visualisations that better communicate what BTO volunteers' data tell us about the natural world.  He is keen to integrate different data to produce improved insights, for example to contribute to Environmental Impact Assessments.  In parallel, Simon works with colleagues to develop bioacoustic monitoring techniques and associated data management infrastructure for use in engagement, monitoring and research.

Other Information

Simon is a keen birder and avid user of BirdTrack. As such he is always keen to see the use of birdwatchers' records for research and conservation through appropriate analytical design and novel data visualisation. A recent example is the production of data-driven calendar wheels and novel seasonal abundance maps for the Collins-BTO Guide to British Birds.

Qualifications