By Taruna Rapaka
Daniel Osorio Barreto, is an economics graduate who joined KAUST this fall from Universidad Autónoma de Manizales, Colombia. He is as a Ph.D. student and member of the KAUST Biostatistics Group under the supervision of Professor Hernando Ombao.
Daniele initially heard about KAUST from one of his friends who is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the university. He decided to choose KAUST to further his academic career after hearing about his friend’s outstanding experience and the excellent on-campus research atmosphere.
What was your main subject during your master's degree? Why did you choose it?
My main subject was economics. I chose it because I like to research topics related to econometrics and macroeconomics.
When did you first become interested in statistics? What are your research interests?
I first became interested when I took the first statistics and econometrics courses in my undergraduate program.
My research interests include biostatistics, behavioral economics, and macroeconomics.
What is your future outlook?
In the immediate future, my outlook is to enjoy and learn all that I can during my Ph.D. Later, I want to continue my academic life as a professor.
What do you do in your spare time?
I like to read books and spend time with my wife.
Can you give a piece of advice to students who plan to pursue a M.S./Ph.D. at KAUST?
My advice is to always remember that discipline and passion are the key ingredients to becoming a successful student and researcher.