Decoding the Future: Dr. James Newswanger on AI Research, Applied Statistics, and Data-Driven Careers
In a world racing to learn all the next coding tools, Dr. James Newswagner highlights the importance of statistics as well! On Episode 5 of Season 5, Suhaani interviews Dr. James Newswanger, a former Market Intelligence Researcher at IBM and an instructor at Columbia University. His journey ranges from obtaining a PhD in applied statistics to leading cutting-edge AI research at IBM, and he sees AI evolving from a tool into a coworker with the rise of agents. Tune in to hear his insight for students and advice on why statistics (not just programming) is the true foundation for a career in data science, and how to stand out in a competitive market.
Hello! Welcome back to Debugged, the Congressional App Challenge’s alumni-led podcast that connects the country’s youth with technology by debugging the intricate world of computer science.
In this episode, Suhaani Sodhi chats with Dr. James Newswanger, a Columbia University lecturer and former IBM Market Intelligence Researcher. After completing a PhD in Applied Statistics at the University of Pennsylvania’s PREM (Policy Research Evaluation and Management) program, James worked at a market research agency prior to joining IBM.
James dives into his work at IBM and explains what “market intelligence research” really means. He started at IBM as an intranet research manager studying how IBM employees work online. Describing the difference between quantitative and qualitative research, James talks about how he does both as a mixed method researcher.
AI was introduced to James gradually, but it’s had a significant impact on his work. James shares his thoughts on how agentic AI and APIs can manage tasks as well as how AI might impact human jobs in the future. Even in his corporate research work, James has never really left academia, and he’s carried a passion for learning from IBM to Columbia. One thing he’s learned over the years is how important data science is in day-to-day life, and he discusses his thoughts with Suhaani.
Tune in to the fifth episode of Debugged Season 5 to hear more about James’ thoughts on research, data science, AI, and how high schoolers can make an impact in those areas—especially applied statistics!