Jack Forster
Principal Data Scientist – ConsultancyJack joined HiDef in 2023, having spent over 10 years working as a statistician in government. Since starting at HiDef, Jack has focused on embedding reproducible analytical pipelines and automation within HiDef’s processes, refining flight height analysis and building up a portfolio of data science-led project work, primarily focused around post- versus pre-construction spatial analysis of seabird distributions. Jack is also leading the development of AI-based object detection and identification work at HiDef.
Jack is a Chartered Statistician, and previously worked as an in-house statistical consultant with a broad remit including experimental design, simulations/power analyses, mixed effects modelling, ordination and image analysis. Jack specialises in the use of the R programming language and has trained scientists in its use for data science. Jack has a keen interest in the production of interactive content to aid efficiency, engagement and understanding for both stakeholders and the public.
Prior to his government career, Jack completed a PhD in theoretical ecology at Queen Mary University of London, with specific focus on the response of growth rate and body size to increasing temperature in ectothermic organisms.