Visualizing the Future: CAnD3 Fellows at Oxford PopAging DataViz Workshop
From August 19–21, 2025, CAnD3 Fellows gathered at St. Hilda’s College, University of Oxford, for the Oxford PopAging DataViz Workshop, an inspiring three-day event blending hands-on training, critical discussion, and community building. This workshop was made possible through our wonderful collaboration with the, whose support and partnership helped bring the workshop to life.
Dr. Sakeef Karim delivering his R Data Visualization Workshop.
The week began with a full-day R workshop led by CAnD3 Alum , now an Assistant Professor of Sociology at Amherst College. Drawing on his expertise in computational sociology and data visualization, Dr. Karim guided Fellows through advanced techniques, encouraged open discussion, and provided valuable feedback on their projects. That evening, the group gathered for a formal dinner at St. Hilda’s College, where Fellows and staff connected beyond the lecture hall and enjoyed the opportunity to strengthen relationships in a collegial atmosphere.
On Wednesday, the R workshop continued under Dr. Karim’s guidance, followed by an inspiring Lunch&Learn seminar with Dr. Amélie Quesnel-Vallée (91ÉçÇø) and (Florida State University). Their conversation on the future of aging research sparked meaningful reflections on the challenges ahead and the innovative contributions that CAnD3 Fellows can bring to the field. The day highlighted the power of combining technical skills with big-picture thinking about how research can shape society.
Dr. Miles Taylor lecturing about the Future of Aging Research.
The final day opened with a wrap-up of Dr. Karim’s workshop, after which Fellows dedicated time to polishing and presenting the visualizations they had been developing throughout the week. These presentations provided a chance not only to showcase their creativity and skills, but also to engage in peer-to-peer discussion and constructive feedback, deepening their understanding of how to communicate research effectively.
To close the workshop on a memorable note, the group set off on a walking tour through Oxford’s historic streets and architecture, learning fascinating stories about the city’s past. The farewell concluded at the Turf Tavern, one of the oldest taverns in the world, a fitting and lively ending to an enriching week.
The CAnD3 team extends heartfelt gratitude to our partners at the Leverhulme Centre for Data Science (LCDS) for their invaluable support in hosting and organizing this event. This workshop would not have been possible without the hard work of our ever-supportive partners and staff:
- Our instructor: Dr. Sakeef Karim
- Lunch&Learn speakers: Dr. Amélie Quesnel-Vallée and Dr. Miles Taylor
- LCDS team:Â Louise Allock, Andrea Tilstra, Sander Wagner, and Tamika Jules
- CAnD3 team:Â Divine-Favour Ofili, Clara Bolster-Foucault, Zilin Li, Michaela Bunakova, Katarina Bunakova,Â
- Under the guidance of CAnD3 Project Manager: Arianne Rodriguez-Saltron
This collaborative effort offered a truly enriching experience, advancing the frontiers of data visualization and inspiring a spirit of innovation among participants. Reflecting on the workshop’s success, we are reminded of the immense power in uniting diverse minds to address complex data challenges and promote data-driven decision-making. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all participants for their enthusiasm and dedication, this workshop wouldn’t have been possible without each of you!
