Hey there, I’m Irena! I’m a data reporter at The New York Times focusing on science, health and climate topics. Previously, I was a data reporter at ProPublica, where I reported on various topics in public health and food safety, wildlife, criminal justice, and local government. I’ve also worked at Planet Money, The Associated Press, Big Local News, and The Dallas Morning News.
Before becoming a journalist, I completed a PhD in electrical engineering. My doctoral dissertation was about signal processing and bioinformatics.
I found my way into journalism thanks to some wonderful mentors and student training programs, including the AAJA Voices program and the Chips Quinn Scholars Program for Diversity in Journalism. I enjoy doing informational chats with students, particularly doctoral candidates in STEM fields. Send me an email or message on LinkedIn, and I’ll be happy to find a time to talk!