A data science student from The University of Western Australia has won the Ernst and Young (EY) NextWave data science challenge, competing against more than 4000 students from 16 countries to take out the top spot.

The challenge, which aims to develop the brightest minds in data science from top universities across the globe, required students to use technology to work on mobility and smart cities challenges and develop solutions.

Challenge winner Sergio Banchero carried out a data analysis to predict people’s mobility in a city by analysing data collected of their past behaviour.

He then looked at how the data could be used effectively to improve traffic flow, public transport systems and the benefits that would have for people’s health and wellbeing.

Sergio said he enjoyed the challenge, which helped him develop critical communication and problem solving skills.

“I really enjoyed meeting other finalists and seeing how others used their creativity to come up with insightful solutions, even though we all started from the same data and problem,” he said.

“Winning this prestigious competition will not only provide me with industry exposure, but it’s also a big motivation for continuing a career path in data science and challenging myself in the future.”

As the winner of the competition, Sergio will have the opportunity to complete an internship in EY’s data science unit in Perth and will visit the EY office in New York to present his submission to the EY leadership team.

Media references

Jess Reid (UWA Media and Public Relations Adviser) 08 6488 6876