New Team Member Rubab Shahzad

As a Data Visualization Librarian, Rubab Shahzad sees the story behind the numbers and figures presented to her when students and faculty seek help.  

Rubab feels honored to help library patrons tell these important stories through numbers. She was drawn to work at UTA Libraries because of the opportunities it presented and the work it is currently undertaking.  

"The libraries at UTA are doing some amazing work here. I see a lot of physical and digital improvements that are coming in the next few years, and I want to be a part of this community. That is actually one of the reasons that I chose UTA," Rubab said. "I like this position in data visualization and being able to help students and faculty with their data visualization needs." 

In her role as a Data Visualization Librarian, one of Rubab's primary responsibilities is to help students and faculty with their projects at the DataCave in The Basement of the UTA Central Library. 

The DataCave provides support and services centering on data-driven research, e-science and digital humanities data analysis. Services include teaching and consultation on working with data, data management and data visualization through charts, infographics, and other tools. The DataCave is a place where future workshops will be held to highlight the tools and resources that are available for library patrons.  

"The DataCave is a lab for people to come in and work on their projects. In the daytime hours, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., student employees are there to help the students with their needs," Rubab said. "There is different software installed at the DataCave. Our Geographic Information System is one example of those tools. If they have questions, they can reach out to me." 

Rubab looks to grow the reach of the DataCave with students and faculty showcasing its services.  

One way Rubab looks to accomplish this goal is through an upcoming datathon event. The datathon is anticipated to take place in March or April. The 24-hour thrill-filled event aims to bring students from UTA and other colleges together to compete and learn from each other.  

Rubab stated she looks forward to helping anyone with their projects. She also wants people to know she is open to suggestions to improve services, stating, "I am all ears and always welcome to suggestions." 

 Information about research data services or the DataCave can is on the UTA Libraries website at https://libraries.uta.edu/research/scholcomm/data. Online appointments to meet with DataCave staff can also be made on this website.