Sinead Curtin
"Woolf’s program gave me practical data science skills that I could apply directly in a clinical setting. Its flexibility allowed me to balance studies with maternity leave while learning predictive modeling and machine learning to improve patient outcomes and lab operations."
Studying Data Science on Maternity Leave: Success Happens as Life is Happening
I’m Sinead Curtin, from Mallow, Co. Cork, and I work as a Medical Scientist in the Biochemistry Laboratory at Cork University Hospital. I’ve always been committed to lifelong learning in our field. After completing my BSc in Biomedical Science and MSc in Biomedical Sciences with a focus on Clinical Chemistry, I knew that continuing professional development wasn’t just a requirement — it was part of how we grow as healthcare professionals.
In 2024, I completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Data Science through Woolf. I chose this program as part of my CPD obligations under CORU, the health and social care regulator in Ireland, where I’m registered as a medical scientist. But beyond meeting regulatory standards, I was genuinely drawn to the field of data science. Every day, we generate vast amounts of data in the lab. Learning to analyze and understand complex datasets is key to improving both patient outcomes and the operation of our laboratories.
What made this experience even more meaningful, and challenging, was that I completed the program while on maternity leave. Balancing lectures, assignments, and exams while caring for a newborn was no small task. There were days when I attended classes with a baby in my arms or submitted coursework during nap times. But I’m proud of what I accomplished during that time. It reminded me that growth doesn’t always wait for ideal conditions; it often happens in the middle of real life.
One of the areas I found most impactful in the course was predictive modelling and machine learning. These tools are transforming how we understand disease progression and patient outcomes, and I see clear opportunities to apply them in our lab. I’m excited to bring this knowledge into future projects focused on clinical data analysis and optimization within the Biochemistry Lab at CUH.
This program didn’t just expand my skill set, it shifted how I think about the role of data in medical science. I’m grateful for the flexibility and relevance of the Woolf program, and I’m looking forward to building on this foundation as I continue to contribute to the future of healthcare.
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