Dr Gray Manicom,
School of Data Science and Computational Thinking
A short summary of Gray's research:
I came into machine learning because recent breakthroughs with large language models such as ChatGPT demonstrate that it is and will be a powerful tool for research and development moving into the future.
Research for Impact is one of the core strategic themes in SU`s Vision 2040. Can you describe the (potential) impact of your research?
At the Policy Innovation Lab we use machine learning and other data science tools to help South Africa achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. This is done in a number of ways, with our current being to increase the efficiency of service delivery and policy-makers by giving them access to information obtained using and curated by machine learning tools. For example, we are developing a citizen chatbot where South Africans can engage on topics of service delivery which serves them by helping hold their officials to account and helps government officials by giving them access to real-time data analysis of citizen feedback relating to service delivery.
In the ever-changing environment of academia, what are some of the obstacles postdoctoral researchers are faced with?
Postdocs can face a lot of uncertainty and job insecurity at a stage of life when most people are settling down and finding stability. Many also face difficulty with imposter syndrome. However, it is also a rare opportunity to do independent research and to prove oneself.
What would you regard as the most important aspects to consider to effectively support postdoctoral researchers?
Acknowledge that the postdoc is a make-or-break stepping-stone towards an academic research career, and thus while postdocs are meant to perform quite independent research, support should be given in terms of career prospects and job security. This can be done by offering courses, giving them opportunities to lecture or supervise, offering them bursaries to attend conferences for networking opportunities, and, ideally, creating internal career opportunities.
What excites you about your work?
I get to open up papers about the most recent advancements in perhaps the most significant technological breakthrough since the internet and think "How can I use this to make South Africa better?"
Then I get to go out and try those things!
When you're not in the lab, library or in the field conducting research, what do you do to unwind?
I like to play boardgames, video games and bouldering.
How has the postdoctoral researcher programme of SU contributed to your research career?
It has allowed me to do high-quality research in an exciting team. In my few months here I already have many opportunities for collaboration and research development.
What advice, if any, would you look to impart to future postdoctoral researchers?
If you are here, you earned your place.
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