Eoghan Kelly
Geospatial Data Scientist & Architect
British / Irish | Full UK Driving Licence
About Me
I’m an experienced and detail-oriented Geospatial Data Scientist with a strong track record in spatial analysis, enterprise GIS, and data architecture. My work spans major national infrastructure programmes, where I’ve delivered scalable geospatial workflows, enterprise GIS systems, and actionable insights for government and industry stakeholders.
I specialise in bridging the gap between complex spatial data and decision-making, helping organisations embed geospatial capability at the core of their operations.
Key Skills
- Geospatial Tools & Systems: ArcGIS Pro, QGIS, FME, PostGIS, Leaflet — advanced spatial analysis, geoprocessing, and modelling across large datasets
- Enterprise GIS & Data Architecture: Setup and management of enterprise GIS platforms, organisation-wide adoption of geospatial tools, and system integration with wider analytics frameworks
- Web-Based & Open-Source Geospatial Applications: Wide experience with open-source, web-based geospatial tools and networking libraries, including spatial tiling and tile-management systems for scalable mapping solutions
- Programming & Data Management: Python, R, SQL, Google BigQuery — automation, modelling, and integration of complex datasets
- AI Integration & Innovation: Practical use of the latest AI tools integrated into geospatial workflows, with proven application of AI-driven analysis and text automation for improved productivity and insight generation
- Remote Sensing & LiDAR: ERDAS Imagine, ENVI, CloudCompare — advanced environmental modelling, infrastructure and communications network assessment
- Data Visualisation & Reporting: Tableau, R, Python — delivering clear, accessible outputs to both technical and policy audiences
- Project & Stakeholder Leadership: Leading geospatial projects in national programmes, managing contractors, stakeholder engagement, and technical mentoring
- Compliance, Policy & Data Standards: Strong knowledge of regulatory frameworks, digital infrastructure policy, and the latest geospatial and data standards (supporting interoperability and compliance across government projects)
Experience
Geospatial Data Scientist — Building Digital UK (Department for Science, Innovation & Technology)
Jan 2022 – Present
- Led the development and management of geospatial projects supporting Project Gigabit and the Shared Rural Network, key national connectivity programmes
- Managed the creation and delivery of high-quality geospatial outputs, directly supporting policy and strategy across government
- Helped establish and scale BDUK’s enterprise GIS systems, embedding geospatial tools into the organisation’s core analytical workflows
- Promoted GIS adoption across analytical and non-analytical teams, enabling colleagues to integrate spatial insight into their work
- Liaised with senior leadership and external stakeholders to ensure alignment between technical outputs, policy goals, and regulatory standards
- Oversaw third-party contractors, providing structure, feedback, and quality assurance
- Designed and implemented workflows for coverage mapping and infrastructure gap analysis across the UK
Key Achievements
- Strengthened BDUK’s geospatial capability, embedding repeatable analysis methods and structured reporting practices
- Delivered trusted spatial insights that directly influenced national digital infrastructure strategy and programme delivery
Research Assistant (Remote Sensing & Machine Learning) — University of Leicester / Jane Goodall Institute
Mar 2021 – Jul 2021
- Applied AI-driven methods and LiDAR analysis to UK landscapes, supporting environmental modelling and species detection
- Integrated machine learning with remote sensing to automate spatial pattern detection, with wider applications in infrastructure and conservation
- Produced tailored insights for conservation, demonstrating the flexibility of geospatial AI methods
Cover Supervisor — The Becket School
Sep 2019 – Jul 2020
- Delivered lessons across multiple subjects, ensuring continuity of learning and effective communication with diverse audiences
Senior Raft Guide — National Water Sports Centre
Apr 2019 – Sep 2019
- Led rafting operations, training teams and ensuring high safety and performance standards
Education & Qualifications
MSc in Geographical Information Science — University of Leicester (Distinction)
2020 – 2021
- Dissertation: Spatial analysis of COVID-19’s impact on crime rates using R
- Advanced GIS, geospatial data management, remote sensing & LiDAR analysis
BSc Geography with Honours — University of Sheffield
2014 – 2017
- Dissertation: Impact of icebergs on chlorophyll production using remote sensing and geospatial modelling
APM Project Management Qualification — Completed March 2023
Activities & Interests
- Competitive Freestyle Canoe/Kayak Athlete — Representing Ireland internationally
- Current OC1 World Champion
- 4th place, C1 at the 2024 Freestyle Kayaking European Championships
- Active kayaking coach and event organiser, promoting the sport at national level
- Passionate about outdoor environments and adventure sports