Samuel Crane, PhD
I am the Director of Data Science at Amplify, an educational technology company in Brooklyn. I lead a team of data scientists inside of Amplify’s Research & Measurement group. Our focus is on analytics, algorithm development, and measuring the impact of our curricula and assessments.
Formerly a biologist, I earned my doctorate studying the ecology and evolutionary genetics of beetles before transitioning to a career in data science. My interests these days involve statistical programming, reproducible research, data visualization, team building, and product development.
I live in lovely Brooklyn with my amazing wife, Katie, where we have a horrible tendency to buy more bottles of wine than can reasonably be stored in our little apartment.
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Some Experiences
I studied biology all through underaguate and graduate school, have taught college-level and high school courses, and currently lead a team of data scientists in the education field.
Amplify
Current role: Director, Data Science
2014–Present
Hunter College
Adjunct Assistant Professor
2014–2016
American Museum of Natural History
PhD Student
2006–2013
City University of New York Graduate Center
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
2013
University of Washington, Seattle
B.Sc., Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
2005
Victrola Coffee, Seattle
Cafe Grumpy, Brooklyn
Coffee roaster and barista for many years
Fun fact, I’m quoted by Peter Meehan in the NY Times. Total coffee snob.