Data Science in Motion: Navigating the Shift from Academia to Industry

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For many students, stepping out of academia and into industry can feel like moving to a different planet; one where deadlines are shorter and results need to make business sense. Yet the skills developed through research translate more powerfully than most expect.

This talk offers a candid look at what it’s like to build a career in data science across academic, operational, and commercial settings. Saghar Motarjemi, Lead Data Scientist at the LEGO Group, will share her own journey, from engineering and environmental research to leading data science projects that inform large-scale business decisions. Expect a practical, informal discussion about what changes (and what doesn’t) when data science leaves the research world.

Please note this event is open to LSE students only.

Meet our speaker

Saghar Motarjemi is a Lead Data Scientist at the LEGO Group with experience across commercial and operational analytics, where she develops scalable data solutions and frameworks that turn complex information into real business impact. With a background in engineering and a PhD in Environmental Science, her career has taken her from academic research and environmental modelling to large-scale forecasting and advanced analytics in industry. She’s worked across the full data science spectrum, from building and deploying models at scale to translating insights into decisions that drive performance. Her work sits at the intersection of scientific rigour and practical application, bridging the worlds of research, data, and strategy.

Careers in Data Science and AI series

This talk forms part of our Careers in Data Science and AI series, which aims to connect students with people working in data science who have made the transition into industry.

Held twice per term, these events are open to all LSE students with an interest in pursuing a career in data science or related fields. Our series features guests with experience of both the public and private sectors, including early career professionals as well as established leaders.

The Careers in Data Science series provides opportunities to find out more about pursuing a career in data science in an informal environment. Each presentation is designed to be conversational in tone. Audience questions are encouraged and there is further opportunity to ask questions and network with refreshments after the presentation.

LSE holds a wide range of events, covering many of the most controversial issues of the day, and speakers at our events may express views that cause offence. The views expressed by speakers at LSE events do not reflect the position or views of the London School of Economics and Political Science.