Milena Marinkovic

• Research Officer - Waythrough Charity

  October 2022 – January 2025

  • Developed predictive models to identify risk factors related to mortality and critical health outcomes using time series analysis on long-term treatment data.
  • Utilised qualitative insights as a foundation for building human-in-the-loop NLP models for predicting mortality risk.
  • Managed and cleansed datasets from SQL databases using Python (imputation, clustering, string cleaning) and Excel for data preparation.
  • Worked with NDTMS data and analysed KPI reports produced by the data team to identify trends and track performance metrics.
  • Led qualitative analysis projects using thematic analysis and thematic network analysis to identify patterns and insights in treatment pathways.
  • Developed methods for thematic analysis and coding, and mentored MSc students to conduct qualitative research, fostering advanced skill development.
  • Ensured GDPR and DPA compliance of research projects, as well as adherence to Aqua Book guidelines. Collaborated with the Quality and Performance team to ensure data quality and explore workflow streamlining.
  • Developed NLP pipelines to anonymise unstructured data, ensuring GDPR/DPA compliance in collaboration with internal and external Data Protection Officers.
  • Implemented ONS GitHub tools, such as RAP and govcookiecutter, to create a reproducible coding environment.
  • Simultaneously led the 'Deaths in Service' project and chaired the Ketamine Working Group, balancing priorities to deliver actionable insights to stakeholders and commissioners.
  • Led projects in Agile frameworks, coordinating with psychology and computer science students and multidisciplinary teams. Supervised MSc projects.
  • Presented findings to commissioners and stakeholders, tailoring outputs for technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Established collaborations with the University of Exeter, supervising MSc students and fostering academic partnerships.

• Freelance AI Training Specialist - Outlier.ai

  August 2024 – Present

  • Conducted thematic coding and applied qualitative research methods to annotate data, improving clarity and relevance in AI outputs.
  • Reviewed and refined prompts and responses using thematic analysis techniques, providing actionable feedback to improve AI model outputs.
  • Collaborated with Outlier.ai to improve AI model performance by providing structured human feedback through response ranking and evaluation.
  • Drafted, reviewed, and refined prompts and responses to enhance the factuality, relevance, and clarity of AI-generated outputs, including conducting research and fact-checking to ensure accuracy.
  • Provided detailed explanations and recommendations to help refine AI systems, based on expertise in qualitative research and critical reasoning skills.

• Postdoctoral Research Associate - University of Exeter, Exeter

  January 2022 – December 2022

  • Conducted interdisciplinary research in single-cell transcriptomics and biophysics, managing and analysing large-scale datasets using Python (Scanpy) and R (Seurat).
  • Applied time-series analysis to biomechanical systems and created data visualisations for accessible communication of results.
  • Applied single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) and phylogenetic methods to explore evolutionary aspects of neurobiology.
  • Expertise in confocal and electron microscopy techniques to investigate neurobiological processes at the cellular level.
  • Presented research findings at international conferences to diverse audiences.
  • Managed research budgets and coordinated with cross-functional teams to achieve project milestones.
  • Employed on a research project funded by an MRC postdoc grant, included in decision-making on budgeting and resource allocation.

• Researcher/Writer - NELIS Global

  January 2021 – December 2021

  • Authored monthly research articles on sustainability topics tailored for Japanese businesses, enhancing engagement and credibility.
  • Conducted thorough research and interviews with industry experts to gather relevant and accurate information.
  • Developed a strong understanding of sustainability practices and their impact on business operations.
  • Produced well-received articles that contributed to increased reader engagement and positive feedback.
  • Collaborated with team members to ensure high-quality content and adherence to deadlines.

• Graduate Research Assistant - University of Exeter, Exeter

  November 2018 – September 2021

  • Analysed large-scale datasets using Python and R, employing clustering, dimensionality reduction, and time-series analysis techniques.
  • Conducted PhD research in single-cell transcriptomics, focusing on gene expression patterns and the evolution of neural circuits in marine biology and neurobiology.
  • Led the EvoCell virtual exhibition, attracting over 25,000 visitors and collaborating with UX designers, curators, and developers.
  • Mentored undergraduate students in laboratory protocols, data analysis, and research methodology.
  • Collaborated with a multidisciplinary team within the Marie Curie network, fostering international research partnerships and science popularisation.
  • Organised and co-hosted a YouTube lecture series.

• PhD in Biology - University of Exeter, Exeter

  November 2018 – July 2023

  • Developed expertise in Python for data analysis, handling large-scale single-cell transcriptomics datasets, and statistical modelling.
  • Gained proficiency in Bash scripting, regular expressions (Regex), and server maintenance to manage computational workflows efficiently.
  • Conducted extensive data annotation and analysis, implementing techniques like clustering, dimensionality reduction, and time-series modelling.
  • Presented findings at international conferences, translating complex analyses into accessible insights.

• Bachelor's Degree in Molecular Biology - University of Belgrade, Belgrade

  September 2013 – June 2017

  • In addition to a broad education in biosciences, I gained extensive training in statistics, biostatistics, and informatics, showcasing strong computational and analytical abilities.

• Udemy Certification - Python for Data Science and Machine Learning Bootcamp

  2021

• English Language Certification - IELTS

  2021

  • Score 8.5/9

• Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst Associate - PL-300

  In Progress, expected February 2024

Data Analysis • Time Series Analysis • Predictive Modelling • Natural Language Processing (NLP) • Statistics • Agile Methodology • GDPR Compliance • Python and R • Scientific Communication • Reproducible Analytical Pipelines (RAP) • Thematic Analysis • Power BI

• Contributor - University of Exeter Psychedelics Colloquium

  2022 - Present

  • Participated in the Psychedelics Colloquium, contributing to discussions with leading experts on the therapeutic potential of psychedelics and their implications for mental health treatment.
  • Fostered collaboration with psychology PhD students, which included learning thematic analysis techniques.
  • Worked closely with Prof. Celia Morgan on projects exploring collaborations between the non-profit sector and universities, focusing on ketamine addiction and the use of ketamine therapy for addiction.

• Lead - Humankind (Nationwide) Ketamine Working Group

  September 2023 – Present

  • Led a working group dedicated to integrating research findings with institutional experience to address the rising issue of ketamine addiction.
  • The group focuses on developing strategies for understanding and mitigating the impact of ketamine misuse within the community.

• Freelance Writer - MIND Foundation

  January 2022 – January 2023

  • Authored several articles for the MIND Foundation, focusing on the science and societal implications of psychedelics.
  • Articles were well-received, contributing to broader public understanding of the role of psychedelics in mental health treatment.

• Live from the Lab: Stories of Animal Ancestors (YouTube talks)
• NELIS Global writing sample
• EvoCell and virtual exhibition blog