[04/03/24] Bayes Centre News: International Women’s Day: An interview with our Director, Professor Ruth King.

Can you tell me a little bit about yourself, your role as Director  of the Bayes Centre and how you got there?

I grew up in the small town of Pontypridd in South Wales. I also loved Mathematics (and in particular Statistics) in School and so it was natural for me to apply to study Mathematics at University. I studied for a BSc in Mathematics with Statistics at the University of Bristol, graduating with a First Class degree. It was as an undergraduate at the University of Bristol that I met my husband, who also studied Mathematics at Bristol. I returned to the University of Bristol to study for a PhD in Statistics. Following completion of my PhD I was a postdoctoral research associate at the University of Cambridge before securing my first permanent position as a lecturer in Statistics at the University of St Andrews. During my time at the University of St Andrews my husband and I had two children. In 2015 I was appointed as the Thomas Bayes’ Professor of Statistics in the School of Mathematics at the University of Edinburgh.

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In 2023 I was appointed the Director of the Bayes Centre, the University of Edinburgh's Innovation Hub for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. This appointment has been very exciting for me, as it is an  opportunity to provide strategic leadership to “make research practical” and support individuals in  realising their potential within the data science and AI arena. The diversity of activities provides new and exciting challenges but also opportunities in the development of upskilling and training in the use of data or AI; to supporting academic-industry collaborations in the development of cutting-edge research to solve industry problems; and nurturing research-led entrepreneurial ambitions leading to the formation of start-up companies and/or scale-up of existing companies. To be at the forefront of such an exciting and diverse collision of academia and industry that encourages and supports the next generation of data science and AI innovators to accelerate economic growth and address global challenges is inspiring.

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

International Women’s Day highlights the achievements of women across all aspects of modern life. It provides a day of reflection as well as celebrating the many different and varied contributions that women make and highlights role models for future generations. “Inspire Inclusion” is a universal call to all – where we all inspire, listen and support each other, providing an environment that embraces and encourages everyone to reach their potential to the benefit of all.

On International Women’s Day, what is the most important piece of advice you want to give to young women at the start of their career journey?

Do not be afraid to be bold – but it is also important to be yourself in so being.

Is there anyone that inspires you in your career?

Working in the area of Mathematics has meant comparatively few female role models throughout my career. However, I have had many inspiring and supportive colleagues throughout my career – both more senior to myself, but also those who are more junior prompting a greater sense self-reflection. I would particularly like to mention two colleagues:

• Professor Sheila Bird (Programme leader at Medical Research Council Biostatistics Unit, Cambridge, now retired) who has been supportive and encouraging of me since my postdoctoral research position at Cambridge. I strive to match her energy, zeal and boldness. 
• Professor Rachel McCrea (Professor of Statistics, Lancaster University) who, as a near contemporary, will challenge me and helps generate a greater sense of reflection, as well as emphasising a supportive work-life balance.