WUN Data Science Network/Cross-disciplinary Collaboration Forum for Digital Health Research

The availability of ‘Big Data’ – at scale and at pace – together with the technology and techniques required to harness the information such data contain, seem certain to transform both science and society in dramatic and unprecedented ways.

Jim Gray – the Turing Award-winning computer scientist – proposed that Data Science might constitute a ‘fourth scientific paradigm’ that radically extends our ability to interrogate, understand and manipulate physical and social worlds beyond what is possible using our three established (empirical, theoretical and computational) paradigms.

Data Science transforms not only how science is done, but also what science means; and the novel insights generated using data-driven analyses (including those delivered through Artificial Intelligence and Machine/Deep Learning) have much to offer every aspect of pure and applied research – from seemingly abstract studies of expression, representation and meaning through to prosaic (though equally complex) practical questions in disciplines more familiar with quantitative techniques (such as engineering, ecology, economics and psychology). Thus, while Data Science plays a central role in predictive analyses of climate change, and its use in evidence-based practice for public health is growing; its novel techniques and insights remain under-utilised in cultural studies and have yet to transform global Higher Education.

For these reasons, the WUN-DSN aims to build on WUN’s reach and impact of successful WUN RDF-facilitated research networks – many of which (with some exceptions) currently do not explicitly exploit novel Data Science techniques – using the evidence, outputs, and opportunities generated by the WUN-DSN to directly benefit all four of the WUN Global Challenges and their associated priority areas by:

1. strengthening understanding of how Data Science might transform research practice, and how organisational structures, networking facilities, training resources and professional guidance might enhance the uptake of Data Science techniques;

2. delivering outputs designed to support Data Science networking, skills development and professional practice;

3. generating opportunities for integrating collaborations with data scientists, and Data Science techniques, within existing and future WUN RDF-supported research.

Research Design

We successfully congregated our WUN members and non-WUN members for three significant events in Hong Kong in late August 2024, there were two sessions held at the International Forum on Quality and Safety in Healthcare 2024, organized by BMJ.

The first, Breakfast session titled ‘AI Chatbots: Friend or Foe’, the session included member presentations and discussions on the role of AI chatbots in healthcare.

And the second, lunch huddle session titled ‘Conclusive Recommendations for using Artificial Intelligence Chatbots: Interdisciplinary Panel Discussion’, this session featured an interdisciplinary panel that explored AI development possibilities, challenges, and solutions. Both sessions were well-received, attracting over 300 professionals.

Thirdly, a seminar titled ‘Digital Health: An Opportunity for AI in Healthcare’ took place at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, with roughly 100 professionals and students, focusing on the latest advancements and applications of AI and other technologies in areas such as health management, health system, elderly care, dementia detection, and clinical diagnosis.

These events not only revitalized member engagement, but also raised voices in the field, attracting attendees from various institutions, such as professor from University of Hong Kong and prompted potential research collaboration opportunities.

Project Objectives

Revitalize Members’s engagement: These three events are designed to reignite the enthusiasm and active participation of our members, following the stagnation caused by the COVID pandemic. By providing a dynamic and interactive forum experience, we aim to strengthen the sense of community within our members.

Facilitate Knowledge Sharing: We are dedicated to gathering our WUN-members to share their advancements and research developed during the pandemic.

Strengthen Professional Networks: The forums will offer opportunities for members to stretch out for networking, collaborating, and building professional relationships that will support their growth.

Highlight Cutting-Edge Developments: Showcase the most recent and impactful developments in our field, inspiring members to stay updated and engaged with the latest industry trends and innovations.