UVA School of Data Science Welcomes New Ph.D. Cohort Fall 2025
The University of Virginia School of Data Science is proud to welcome its newest cohort of Ph.D. in Data Science students this fall. Representing a wide range of academic backgrounds, research interests, and life experiences, the students bring with them a shared motivation to advance responsible data science and pursue discovery across disciplines.
This year’s incoming students hail from across the United States and around the globe, with hometowns stretching from Virginia and California to South Korea, Norway, and China. Their academic paths include degrees in art theory, computer science, economics, epidemiology, mathematics, physics, and translation—demonstrating the truly interdisciplinary nature of the field.
Motivated by Curiosity and Personal Growth
Many students were drawn to UVA for its collaborative culture and emphasis on interdisciplinary scholarship. One student noted, “I chose UVA’s Ph.D. in Data Science because I wanted to be part of a program that encourages curiosity and collaboration across disciplines.” Another reflected on their initial impressions, saying, “Every faculty member I’ve met has been welcoming and enthusiastic. It feels like a place where I can grow as a researcher and a person.”
Their research interests span human-centered AI, the science of science, trustworthy machine learning, multimodal learning, transparency in algorithms, and applying data science to domains such as sports analytics, climate modeling, and public policy. Career aspirations range from academic research and university teaching to industry roles building ethical and impactful data systems.
Outside interests from the incoming class reveal their diverse personalities: one student is passionate about street dancing, another stayed awake 78 hours in Alaska to photograph the aurora, and another is a former skateboarder with a collection of YouTube videos to prove it.
A Program with History and Momentum
The Ph.D. in Data Science program was officially launched in 2022 as the first degree offered by UVA’s independent School of Data Science. Designed to train scholars who can both push the boundaries of research and apply data science to complex societal challenges, the program emphasizes collaborative mentorship, methodological innovation, and ethical responsibility. Students develop individualized research pathways by working with faculty across UVA, reflecting the school’s mission to serve as a “School Without Walls.”
Thomas Stewart, program director for the Ph.D. in Data Science, highlighted the central role of students in shaping the school’s future. “Our Ph.D. students are the key to transforming our multidisciplinary faculty into a truly interdisciplinary hub,” Stewart said. “When students assemble mentorship teams that align with their research interests, they naturally foster greater collaboration across disciplines, helping us deliver on the promise of a new, independent school of data science.”
Looking Ahead
Now entering its fourth year, the Ph.D. program continues to grow in scope and impact. Students are engaged in cutting-edge projects across health care, artificial intelligence, climate science, and social equity, advancing knowledge while also contributing to the School’s mission to practice responsible data science for the common good.
As the new cohort settles into their studies, they bring with them curiosity, creativity, and a spirit of collaboration — qualities that will shape not only their own research journeys, but also the future of the School of Data Science itself.
