Meet the team
Barbara A. Solanilla
Barbara joined the Urban Big Data Centre (UBDC) in May 2023. As Senior Research Engineering Manager, Barbara manages a team of research software engineers, data scientists and information professionals in support of UBDC’s national data service and research activities, as well as other research activities across the College of Social Sciences. Barbara is responsible for developing, managing, and implementing the research computing, data, and information services strategies and policies within UBDC., as well as leading on engagement with key internal and external stakeholders. As a member of the UBDC Senior Leadership Group, she also plays a key role in the effective delivery of the Centre’s budgets and resources.
Barbara has 10 years of experience working in multiple technology and data fields and managing data teams and digital transformation projects in Scotland and abroad. Before joining UBDC, Barbara managed a digital analytics team at VisitScotland were she led the implementation of a Social Listening research infrastructure and integration of GDPR compliance in the use of website technologies.
Barbara has a MA in Journalism and Media from the Universidad Complutense de Madrid and possesses further qualifications in Digital Marketing and Business, including Change Management, Digital Transformation, and Agile Project Management and Product Owner. She is passionate about ensuring an ethical use of data and enabling diversity and inclusivity in the development of new technologies.
She specialises in leading and nurturing highly qualified teams to successfully deliver technical projects that are key to support the achievement of the wider organisational goals.
Positions
Senior Research Engineer Manager