Research Staff Spotlight: Melody (Xinwen) Li

Melody Li jumped into data science right when the field was really starting to take off. “My first year in college was the first year they offered this new major,” Melody explains. “It was focused on learning computer science, but on a track that covers data science in more detail.” From then on, she didn’t look back.

While in college, Melody worked in a research laboratory, which inspired her to pursue a career in medical research. She has been in her current position as a Data Scientist at CHLA for just over two years. “I work closely with various stakeholders, including doctors and researchers, to analyze and interpret health care data and patient data.”

Specifically, Melody uses her data science background and coding skills for data engineering, statistical analysis and machine learning models to provide insights that can aid in both clinical decision making and research. “I really enjoy the coding aspect of my work,” Melody says. “I like allowing myself to dive into complex data problems. And it’s rewarding to see how the data I work on can be meaningful and useful to doctors.”

Melody is also grateful for the team members she gets to work with at CHLA. “All the people I work with are passionate about their work and motivate me to continue putting great effort into supporting the health care providers,” she says. “They really care.”

Outside of work, Melody enjoys hiking and playing tennis.