EDW Analyst Diogo Costa Making Data Manageable
Diogo Costa often sees data like a silhouette, an outline of a construct far bigger than its parts.
As an Enterprise Data Warehouse (EDW) Analyst at Northwestern University’s Clinical and Translational Sciences (NUCATS) Institute, he transforms intricate datasets into streamlined tools that empower researchers and drive organizational success. With a global perspective shaped by living and working across multiple continents, Costa has a lifelong passion for problem solving that starts with a dynamic approach to data management and accessibility. To him, being an EDW analyst is more than just numbers — it’s about creating solutions that make a meaningful difference in his colleagues’ work.
In his role, Costa oversees the organization and tracking of all data products within NUCATS, streamlining workflows, and generating reports and dashboards with key metrics. His mission is integrative: to make NUCATS’ vast data resources more manageable and impactful for both researchers and the organization at large.
Costa believes that data analysis extends beyond technical tasks: “At its core, my job is all about people,” Costa says. “It’s not just about technology, but about understanding people’s needs and finding ways to make their work easier and more efficient.”
I enjoy the problem-solving aspect of data analysis. It allows me to delve into complex situations, unravel the various components involved and find ways to simplify their interactions. It's almost therapeutic.”
Diogo Costa, Enterprise Data Warehouse Analyst
Costa’s journey to data analytics did not follow a linear path. Originally from Porto, Portugal, he spent his formative years in various parts of the world, including attending high school in Phuket, Thailand, and working across Europe before moving to the U.S. to study at Northwestern University. There, he earned a BS in Mechanical Engineering and Robotics, discovering his passion for data analysis during his freshman year while working with the Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing (ISGMH).
“I enjoy the problem-solving aspect of data analysis. It allows me to delve into complex situations, unravel the various components involved and find ways to simplify their interactions. It's almost therapeutic,” Costa says.
Costa’s day-to-day work revolves around engaging with stakeholders to better understand how data integrates into workflows. By identifying gaps and opportunities, he implements strategies that make data more accessible and systems more efficient for broader application. To him, a successful day is one where he makes tangible progress toward these goals.
Reflecting on his journey, he encourages adaptability: “Keep an open mind and a curious spirit,” Costa says. “Each scenario you’ll face has its own unique characteristics, and you’ll be responsible for finding an equally unique solution.”
Among his most pressing challenges is ensuring that data remains organized, secure, and accessible. This is no small task, as it requires the collective effort of everyone at NUCATS. He emphasizes that collaboration and commitment are essential to making data work for everyone. “This responsibility requires the collective effort of everyone involved, as data is created and utilized by all. Collaboration and commitment are ultimately essential to the effectiveness of this role,” Costa says.
Outside the office, Costa explores creative outlets in the arts and fashion. “I enjoy painting in my free time and am currently working on a few new fashion projects,” Costa says. This innovative energy is reflective in his approach to analytics, granting him an inspired perspective on problem-solving.
Now a resident of Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood, Costa appreciates the city’s unique blend of community and cosmopolitan life. “I love the neighborhood feel of where I live while still being part of the larger city of Chicago,” Costa says.
As he continues to refine NUCATS’ data infrastructure, Costa is eager to further enhance the accessibility and impact of the Institute’s data for researchers and stakeholders alike. With his mix of technical expertise, creative thinking, and a people-first approach, Costa is helping NUCATS unlock the full potential of its data resources.
Written by Alex Miranda
