I’m Olatubosun Esho, and I’d love to share my journey through an enriching internship I recently completed with DARE UK as part of the Health Data Science Black Internship Programme.
The internship officially began on 30 June 2025, and was initially set for eight weeks. My role? A Research Officer, diving headfirst into the world of health research data.
My background might surprise you: I studied Applied Geophysics as an undergraduate and later pursued a master’s degree in Global Financial Trading. Despite this, I’ve always had a deep interest in data. I saw this internship as a golden opportunity to explore that passion further. A few months before starting, I enrolled in data analytics courses, learning SQL, Python, and Excel, and even sat for some professional exams to strengthen my skills.
When I discovered the Black Internship Programme, which connected me to HDR UK and DARE UK (Data and Analytics Research Environments UK), I jumped at the opportunity. The interview process went smoothly, and before long, I became part of the DARE UK team.
Early on, I faced a few challenges. I had to learn SurveyMonkey, a software tool I hadn’t used before. My main project involved conducting an landscape review of UK Trusted Research Environments (TREs) — analysing survey responses, cleaning data, and writing a report — all within the initial eight-week timeframe. However, as the surveys were still being completed, the project extended beyond the original schedule. Wanting to see it through, I offered to continue supporting the team, and my internship was extended by another eight weeks, the first time since the history of the internship programme.
That extension turned out to be a blessing. It allowed me to complete the data analysis, finalise the report, and develop confidence working independently. Over the 16 weeks, I learned how to adapt quickly, overcome challenges, and manage my work with minimal supervision. I also had the privilege of meeting and collaborating with talented, supportive colleagues across HDR UK and DARE UK.
Looking ahead, this internship hasn’t just been a standalone experience — it has been a launching pad. The knowledge and skills I’ve gained, from mastering new tools to learning how to adapt under pressure, are things I’m excited to carry forward. I see myself diving even deeper into the world of data and health research, using every bit of potential I have to contribute meaningfully. This experience has inspired a vision for my future: one where I continue growing, refining my skills, and ultimately making a difference in the field of data and research.
I’m grateful to HDR UK and DARE UK for providing such a welcoming environment and a meaningful opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute. It has truly been a rewarding and transformative experience!
Applications are now open for the 2026 Health Data Science Black Internship Programme – apply now!
Expand your health data science knowledge and gain the experience you need to kickstart your career in this field.
The internship programme is a super way for aspiring data scientists to gain hands-on experience, carrying out practical projects in the real world. It’s a great way to find out about a rapidly advancing area of science, meet fellow interns, looks superb on a CV – and can open doors to new opportunities.
Click below to learn more about the opportunity and apply.
