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Nijiati Abulizi

Data scientist and biochemist passionate about applying machine learning, bioinformatics, and data analysis to solve real-world problems. Skilled in predictive modeling and working with large datasets to drive meaningful insights and impact in healthcare and beyond.

Skills

09/2023 - 07/2024

Kelowna, BC

Master of Data Science | University of British Columbia Okanagan

GPA: 95.3 | Scholarship: 5000

Focus: Python/R , Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Statistical Analysis, Bayesian Statistics

  • Lung Disease Classifier (Keras, deep learning)
  • Diabetes Prediction Model(scikit-learn, healthcare analytics)
  • Milk Quality Prediction (scikit-learn, predictive modeling)

09/2014 - 02/2017

Kelowna, BC

Master of Science in Biochemistry | University of British Columbia Okanagan

GPA: 92 | Scholarship: 24000

Focus: Bioinformatics, Experimental Design, Scientific Writing

  • Thesis: The Effects of Lipid Diets on Gut Microbiota

09/2010 - 06/2014

Kelowna, BC

Bachelor of Science | University of British Columbia Okanagan

GPA: 84.4 | Scholarship: 17000

Focus: Medical Concentration

2019

Gut Mucosal Proteins and Bacteriome Are Shaped by the Saturation Index of Dietary Lipids.

Nutrients. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11020418

  • Performed bioinformatics and proteomic analysis using Python, R, and QIIME.
  • Conducted statistical analysis, created figures, and wrote and revised manuscript.

2017

Linking the Gut Microbial Ecosystem with the Environment: Does Gut Health Depend on Where We Live?

Front Microbiol.. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2017.01935

  • Led data collection, analysis, and statistical evaluation in R while mentoring a co-author.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to drive project success.

2016

Dietary Lipid Type, Rather Than Total Number of Calories, Alters Outcomes of Enteric Infection in Mice.

J Infect Dis. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/infdis/jiw084

  • Conducted proteomic experiments and analyzed data using Python and R.
  • Provided supplemental data and supporting materials for peer review processes.

2024

A Gut Microbiome Transition: The Journey from India to Canada.

Journal of the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/jcag/gwad061.185

  • Contributed to the statistical analysis of microbial changes in Indian immigrants using R.

2024

The transition from a non-westernized to westernized gut microbiome in Indian-Immigrants and Indo-Canadians is associated with dietary acculturation.

bioRxiv, 2024. DOI: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2024.03.04.582285v1

  • Analyzed and visualized microbiome data in Python and R while mentoring co-authors

05/2024 - 09/2024

Kelowna, BC

Health Research Data Analyst | University of Calgary

  • Collaborated with an MD, PhD, and dietitian to analyze microbiome and demographic data, providing actionable healthcare research insights.
  • Conducted db-RDA analysis to reveal key data relationships, enhancing research impact.
  • Built streamlined R/Python workflows to automate data processing, boosting efficiency.
  • Presented findings to stakeholders, helping inform healthcare research decisions.

05/2024 - 07/2024

Kelowna, BC

Machine Learning Data Scientist (Capstone) | GreenspaceHealth

  • Processed 140,000 patient records from 14 SQL tables, capturing 78% variance in PHQ-9
  • predictions using Random Forest, Temporal Neural Network, and XGBoost models.
  • Developed inference and prediction models, presenting insights to professors and the CEO.
  • Delivered a clear executive summary and detailed report to guide product design decisions.

09/2023 - 07/2024

Kelowna, BC

Research Data Consultant | University of British Columbia Okanagan

  • Led Python and R workshops for 30+ researchers, reducing analysis time by over 40%.
  • Guided statistical modeling, data wrangling, and visualization across diverse projects.
  • Simplified workflows through one-on-one consultations on complex datasets.
  • Enhanced research quality with advanced analysis and visualization techniques.

03/2018 - 08/2023

Kelowna, BC

Biochemistry Laboratory Technician | University of British Columbia Okanagan

  • Assisted professors with teaching, lab setup and takedown, and protocol testing.
  • Managed animal care facility, chemical inventory, lab organization, and TA training.
  • Created and edited Biology YouTube content to expand educational reach.
  • Oversaw lab equipment and supply procurement for efficient operations.

09/2024 - 10/2024

Kelowna, BC

Sessional Lecturer | University of British Columbia Okanagan

  • Taught R and Python to 37 UBC MDS students, emphasizing best practices and core programming concepts.
  • Designed and evaluated labs and exams to reinforce programming skills and problem-solving.
  • Simplified complex topics using Jupyter Notebooks and practical examples.
  • Adapted lessons to support diverse needs, including language barriers and disabilities.

Courses Taught:

  • Programming in Python and R for Data Science

05/2024 - 09/2024

Kelowna, BC

Excel Workshop Instructor | University of British Columbia Okanagan

  • Collaborated with staff to identify training needs for Excel workshops.
  • Conducted tailored sessions to solve project-specific challenges and boost technical skills.
  • Delivered self-paced videos and one-on-one coaching for personalized support.
  • Created resources focused on real-world applications to drive skill development.

Courses Taught:

  • 1. Excel 2. Power Query

09/2014 - 08/2016

Kelowna, BC

Graduate Teaching Assistant | University of British Columbia Okanagan

  • Led lab sessions, facilitated discussions, and delivered tutorials to reinforce key concepts.
  • Graded exams, assignments, and reports, ensuring fair and timely evaluation.
  • Provided academic support during office hours to enhance understanding and performance.
  • Developed study aids and review sessions to support diverse courses and learning needs.

Courses Taught:

  • 1. BIOL 125, Biology for Science Majors II (2015/2016 Winter Term 2)
  • 2. BIOL 116, Biology for Science Majors I (2015/2016 Winter Term 1)
  • 3. BIOL 133, Anatomy and Physiology (2014/2015 Winter Term 2)
  • 4. BIOL 131, Anatomy and Physiology (2014/2015 Winter Term 1)

09/2012 - 08/2014

Kelowna, BC

Undergraduate Teaching Assistant | University of British Columbia Okanagan

  • Led lab sessions, facilitated discussions, and delivered tutorials to reinforce key concepts.
  • Graded exams, assignments, and reports, ensuring fair and timely evaluation.
  • Provided academic support during office hours to enhance understanding and performance.
  • Developed study aids and review sessions to support diverse courses and learning needs.

Courses Taught:

  • 1. BIOL 116, Biology for Science Majors I (2014 Summer Term 2)
  • 2. PHYS 122, Introductory Physics II (2013/2014 Winter Term 2)
  • 3. BIOC 393, Biochemistry Laboratory (2013/2014 Winter Term 2)
  • 4. CHEM 111, Principles of Chemistry I (2013/2014 Winter Term 1)
  • 5. PHYS 111, Calculus-Based Physics I (2013/2014 Winter Term 1)
  • 6. PHYS 102, Electricity, Light, and Radiation (2012/2013 Winter Term 2)
  • 7. PHYS 112, Introductory Physics I (2012/2013 Winter Term 1)

09/2016

Kelowna, BC

The Effects of Lipid Diets on the Gut Microbiome II

UBC Okanagan Biology Graduate Symposium

  • Won 2nd Place Poster

03/2016

Kelowna, BC

Omics Methods to Study the Effects of High-Fat Diets on Gut Bacteria

Bioinformatics Guest Lecturer

  • Guest Lecturer

09/2015

Kelowna, BC

The Effects of Lipid Diets on the Gut Microbiome I

UBC Okanagan Biology Graduate Symposium

  • Won 1st Place Poster

07/2015

Kelowna, BC

Techniques in Immunology

Immunology Guest Lecturer

  • Guest Lecturer

2023

Master of Data Science Graduate Program Entrance Scholarship

CAD $5000

2016

Graduate Dean’s Thesis Fellowship

CAD $6000

2015

UBC Okanagan Graduate Fellowship

CAD $6000

2015

BC Proteomic Network Training Fund

CAD $4000

2015

Best Poster Award (Health Science MSc)

CAD $150

2015

The Golden Key Graduate Scholar Award

USD $10000

2013

International Student Faculty Award (

CAD $5000

2014

UBC Okanagan Graduate Fellowship

CAD $12000

2012

UBC Okanagan International Community Achievement Award

CAD $3000

2012

International Student Faculty Award

CAD $5000

2012

International Student Faculty Award

CAD $5000

2012

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Scholarship for International Students

CAD $500

2011

UBC Okanagan International Community Achievement Award

CAD $3000

2011

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Scholarship for International Students (

CAD $1000

2011

Dean’s List

None

01/2018 - 12/2024

Kelowna, BC

Literacy Volunteer | Kelowna Project Literacy

Hours: 260

  • Taught English to ESL students and newcomers, aiding integration into Canadian society.
  • Delivered digital literacy workshops to seniors, supporting diverse learning needs.

09/2016 - 06/2023

Kelowna, BC

Outreach Volunteer | University of British Columbia Okanagan

Hours: 450

  • Trained volunteers in animal handling and performed husbandry in an outreach program.
  • Taught biology lessons to children, promoting educational engagement.

05/2014 - 05/2017

Kelowna, BC

Volunteer Instructor | Parkinson Recreation Center

Hours: 150

  • Assisted in dance and cooking classes for individuals with disabilities.
  • Helped foster skill development and active engagement in each session.

09/2015 - 12/2024

Kelowna, BC

Data Mentorship | University of British Columbia Okanagan

Hours: 200

  • Mentored Master’s and PhD students in advanced data analysis using R and Python.
  • Guided graduate students in effective statistical result interpretation for research publications.

08/2024 - 12/2024

Kelowna, BC

YouTube Content Creator | BitSize Learning Channel

Hours: 40

  • Created programming and language learning content for the BitSize Learning channel.
  • Simplified complex topics into short, engaging tutorials to inspire and educate viewers.

09/2014 - 09/2016

Kelowna, BC

Education Leader | Crohn’s and Colitis Kelowna Chapter

Hours: 180

  • Led presentations, distributed education materials, and organized the Gutsy-Walk fundraiser.
  • Provided resources and support to the Crohn’s and Colitis community in Kelowna.