Podcast
The USF Data Science Podcast
Hosted by Robert Clements · EN
Faculty from the Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS) program at the University of San Francisco (USF) discuss important topics in AI, DS, and ML with data science practitioners, educators, and leaders. Hear stories and advice about getting into the field of DS and navigating the complex landscape of data-related roles, tools, and technologies.
Hosted by Robert Clements (Assistant Professor at USF) and Cody Carroll (Assistant Professor at USF)
16episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Product Data Science at Microsoft with Kekona Sorenson
May 22, 202400:26:10Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we chat with Kekona Sorenson, a versatile data science leader at Microsoft. Kekona shares insights on his team’s role in improving Microsoft products through data analysis and experimentation. We also discuss the importance of cultural shifts in data-driven decision making and the need for effective communication in Data Science. According to Kekona, "the thing that separates an average Data Scientist from a great Data Scientist is your soft skills". He also highlights the importance of building trust with stakeholders, and he attempts to sell the role of Product Data Science to an audience enraptured by all things Gen AI.
Transcribe →
Generative AI and Game Development at Roblox with Nico Thiébaut
May 14, 202400:37:48Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we speak to Nico Thiébaut, a seasoned machine learning engineer with a PhD in Physics. Nico shares his experiences working on the popular gaming platform Roblox, highlighting the platform's growth and the challenges of creating engaging, user-generated content. We also discuss the role of machine learning in game development and the ethical complexities of content moderation on large platforms. Our hosts, Cody Carroll and Robert Clements add their insights on human moderation and the importance of soft skills in consulting.
Transcribe →
An Interview with Sundar from Google... Not THAT Sundar
Apr 4, 202400:27:42Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we speak to Sundar Dorai-Raj, a seasoned data scientist at Google and MSDS faculty at USF. He shares about his experience working on Bard/Gemini and the constraints and freedoms of working at a major tech company. We also have a discussion about the place of LLMs and Generative AI in academia — for both students and professors.
Transcribe →
Topological Deep Learning and Generative AI with Mustafa Hajij
Feb 21, 202400:31:29Tap to summarizeIn this episode, MSDS faculty Mustafa Hajij gives a beginner-friendly introduction to topological deep learning. We discuss the foundations and some applications of his research, including graphs, social media networks, and chemical interactions of drugs. He also shares his take on some new developments in Generative AI and discusses how he incorporates emerging topics in deep learning into the classes he teaches at USF.
Transcribe →
A Conversation with a USF Data Science Undergraduate with Hadley Dixon
Feb 8, 202400:36:56Tap to summarizeIn this episode we chat with Hadley Dixon, a student in the Bachelor of Science in Data Science program at the University of San Francisco. She tells us about how she made the decision to major in Data Science after taking a data ethics class and we discuss dealing with imposter syndrome as both students and experts of data science. We also give her a pop quiz about SQL, EDA, and Deep Learning.
Transcribe →
Beyond The Campus Gates: The Journey of a Data Science Grad with Matt Wheeler
Jan 9, 202400:40:49Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we sit down with Matt Wheeler, who works as a Data Engineer at PG&E and is an alumnus of the MS in Data Science program at the University of San Francisco. Matt talks about his move from the UK to the US and the process of integrating into the American Data Science industry. He shares his insights on the dynamic field of Data Engineering and gives us a peek into USF's Data Engineering program. Reflecting on the importance of practicums, Matt highlights how these applied experiences are crucial in shaping a successful career in Data Science and Data Engineering. This episode offers a blend of personal stories and professional insights, providing a unique window into the evolving world of Data Science.
Transcribe →