The UBC Master of Data Science programs partner computer science and statistics experts, providing the foundation for a comprehensive approach, as these two disciplines are at the very core of the emerging field of Data Science. Through active and flexible learning techniques, students will be given the opportunity to put theory into practice and to work with real-world data.
Students learn from faculty working at the forefront of their fields. Internationally respected, these leading researchers collaborate with industries, governments and organizations to develop innovative solutions and make a tangible difference to our world. These thought leaders are passionate about their work, committed to student education and eager to share their knowledge.
Meet Some of Our Faculty and Staff
All
Shan Du, Assistant Professor, MDS Okanagan
"The MDS program equips students with comprehensive and intensive data science knowledge essential for entering data-related industries or academia after graduation. I am proud to be part of it.”
Shan Du is an assistant professor of Computer Science at UBC’s Okanagan Campus. She received the PhD degree from UBC Vancouver and the MSc degree from University of Calgary. Before joining UBC, she worked as an assistant professor with Lakehead University, Canada and as a Research Scientist/Software Engineer with IntelliView Technologies Inc., Canada. Shan is leading the Laboratory for Computational Vision and Intelligence at UBCO to investigate innovative technologies to address the most challenging issues in the field of image/video processing, computer vision/graphics, machine/deep learning, biometrics, and video surveillance systems. She has more than 15 years research and industrial development experience. Shan was recipient of many awards and grants, including NSERC-IRDF, NSERC-CGS D, AITF Industry r&D Associates Grant, ICASSP Best Paper Award, NSERC DG, CFI JELF, NFRF Exploration, etc. She is a senior member of IEEE, IEEE Signal Processing Society and IEEE Circuits and Systems Society. She is serving as an Associate Editor of IEEE Trans. on Circuits and Systems for Video Technology and IEEE Canadian Journal of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Area Chair of ICIP 2023, and served as Area/Session Chair of ICIP 2022, 2021, and 2019.
Fatemeh Hendijani Fard, Assistant Professor, MDS Okanagan
"I am interested in the applications of data science and machine learning for software engineering. Specifically I am working on the detection and prediction of defect/anomalous behaviour in software. This also requires using big data analysis in practice."
Hendijani Fard obtained her PhD from the University of Calgary and her Master of Science from Amirkabir University. Fard's research interest includes mining Github repositories, natural language processing for software analytics, analyzing software defect databases, social media analysis in software analytics and analytics mobile applications. Currently, Hendijani Fard and her team are analyzing software energy bugs in mobile applications from two perspectives: Software and Users. They analyze massive sets of data from GitHub for a personalized recommender system for GitHub users.
Gittu George, Lecturer, MDS Vancouver
"MDS program is designed for students to be successful in the industry. You will be armed with techniques to combat enormous data flow."
Gittu started his academic journey back in 2009. Following his undergrad and master's in Computer Science, he started working in the biotechnology industry as an Engineer. During his industry career, he designed enterprise solutions and computational frameworks for large-scale genome and phenome data. Later his interest in the intersection of computer science and genomics lead him to do a Ph.D. in Bioinformatics from the University of Dundee, UK. During his PhD, he developed novel approaches to accelerate the computational time for genomic algorithms. He joined MDS program as a postdoctoral fellow in 2021.
Patricia Lasserre, Associate Professor, MDS Okanagan
"I love that the MDS program makes the students reflect on ethical issues associated with collecting and analyzing data. It is critical as data scientist that we recognize that we all have a role to play in protecting the ethics, privacy and security of the data we work with."
Dr. P. Lasserre has completed her PhD on Vision for Autonomous Robots in Toulouse (France) in 1996. Since her appointment as Associate Professor at UBC Okanagan in July 2005, she has received the Teaching Excellence and Innovation award (2010), served on several administrative positions as associate dean, associate provost, and provost pro-term (2011-2019) where she participated in UBC wide Data Governance discussions. Her research interests include machine learning techniques in various applications, particularly deep learning in computer vision and OCR.
Vincent Liu, Postdoctoral Research and Teaching Fellow, MDS Vancouver
“There have been exciting advances in artificial intelligence driven by the growth in the size and complexity of data. The data science program equips student with the fundamental knowledge and cutting-edge techniques to analyze and leverage large amounts of data for real-world applications.”
Vincent joined UBC in March 2024 as a postdoctoral teaching and research fellow. He completed his PhD and MSc in Computing Science at the University of Alberta where his research focused on data-driven reinforcement learning. Prior to that, he graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration from National Taiwan University. He is passionate about the use of foundation models for education and personalization.
“Students in the MDS program learn not only the power but most importantly the common missteps one can make in data science. It is about critical thinking in a very complex environment that leverages powerful technologies: modeling, optimization, and data-based algorithms.”
Dr. Yves Lucet is a professor of computer science at the University of British Columbia. His research interests lie in optimization, computer-aided convex analysis, and efficient modeling that take advantage of problem structures. He is a co-recipient of the 2019 EURO Excellence in Practice Award for his work on using optimization to design safe roads at minimal cost. His latest interests are in the interactions between optimization and machine learning.
Scott Mackie, Assistant Professor, MDS Computational Linguistics
"Language is a critical component of artificial intelligence. Solving the field's more challenging problems will require a combination of data science, machine learning, and linguistics. The traditional split between arts and sciences means that few people end up with this blend of skills. The MDS-CL program fills that gap, providing a cross-disciplinary education that helps graduates stand out in the job market."
Scott Mackie received his Ph.D in Linguistics from the University of British Columbia in 2017. He is interested in creating computational research tools, and was a founding member of the UBC Phonology Tools group, writing software for analyzing both spoken and signed languages. He spent 2018-2024 at Amazon, developing natural language understanding models for the Alexa voice assistant. He was also co-author on Amazon's M.A.S.S.I.V.E dataset, a parallel corpus of over 1M sentences spanning 51 languages. He returned to UBC in 2024 as an Assistant Professor in the MDS Computational Linguistics program. His current research focusses on using Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) techniques to improve the response quality of generative language models.
Payman Nickchi, Postdoctoral Research and Teaching Fellow, MDS Vancouver
"The UBC MDS program is designed to teach you techniques in the field of data science. It offers a balanced approach between theory and application, equipping you with the tools needed to apply your knowledge to real-world problems."
Payman began his role as a Postdoctoral Research and Teaching Fellow at UBC in September 2024. Earlier that year, in February, he completed his PhD in Statistics at Simon Fraser University, where his research focused on biostatistics and goodness-of-fit tests using empirical distribution functions. Before that, he earned a bachelor's degree in mathematical statistics and a master's degree in statistics from the University of Tehran. His passion for statistics, teaching, and data science brought him to this role. Outside of work, Payman enjoys swimming and capturing the night sky through astrophotography.
Joel Östblom, Assistant Professor of Teaching, MDS Vancouver
"In addition to the core statistics and machine learning courses, MDS emphasizes the importance of data ethics, reproducibility, and open collaboration, which are crucial skills for a successful, sustainable data science career. Together with the diversity of educational backgrounds among students and instructors, this makes MDS an exciting place to both learn and teach!"
During his PhD, Joel developed a passion for data science and reproducibility through the development of quantitative image analysis pipelines for studying stem cell and developmental biology. He has since co-created or lead the development of several courses and workshops at the University of Toronto and the University of British Columbia. Joel cares deeply about spreading data literacy and excitement over programmatic data analysis, which is reflected in his contributions to open source projects and data science learning resources. Learn more about Joel.
Jungyeul Park, Lecturer, MDS Computational Linguistics
"UBC’s MDS Computational Linguistics is the study of data science and linguistics that empower students to be future ready with tools in computational linguistics. I’m excited to work with our students and explore the new era of natural language processing."
Jungyeul Park received his Ph.D. in Linguistics from the Université Paris Diderot (Paris VII) in 2006. His interest in natural language processing motivated him to pursue Linguistics after initially studying Computer Science. His current research interests include machine learning approaches for morphology and syntax of natural language. He is currently a lecturer in the Department of Linguistics at the University of British Columbia (Vancouver, Canada) and an affiliate assistant professor in the Department of Linguistics at University of Washington (Seattle, USA). Before that he was a visiting assistant professor in the Department of Linguistics at the State University of New York at Buffalo during 2018-2019, a visiting assistant professor in the Department of Linguistics at the University of Arizona during 2016-2017, a research scientist at CEA (Commissariat à l'énergie atomique et aux énergies alternatives) during 2015-2016, and a lecturer (attaché temporaire d'enseignement et de recherche) in the Department of Computer Sciences at IUT de Lannion (Université de Rennes 1) during the academic year 2013-2014.
Vancouver
Alexi Rodriguez-Arelis, Assistant Professor of Teaching, MDS Vancouver
"One of the MDS program's most outstanding strengths is its background diversity within the teaching team and student cohorts. Furthermore, the program has the perfect balance of Machine Learning and Statistics courses which are complimentary. We strive to provide students with the right theoretical and practical foundations to approach real-life and crucial data-related inquiries."
Alexi Rodríguez-Arelis completed his PhD in Statistics at the University of British Columbia in 2020. Born and raised in Mexico, he pursued an undergraduate degree in Industrial Engineering and a master's degree in Applied Statistics at Tecnológico de Monterrey. His machine learning research focuses on computer experiments that emulate scientific and engineering systems via Gaussian stochastic processes. Moreover, he has professional experience in the financial sector along with statistical consulting. Throughout his PhD program, Alexi developed an enthusiasm for teaching Statistics in a Data Science context. He is particularly passionate about projects involving the use of Data Science for social good. Alexi commenced his current role at MDS in January 2021. Learn more about Alexi.
Andy Tai, Postdoctoral Research and Teaching Fellow, MDS Vancouver
"At MDS, we strive to bridge the gap between theoretical data science and practical application, equipping our students with the tools they need to tackle real-world challenges."
Andy Tai joined UBC's Master of Data Science Program as a Postdoctoral Teaching and Learning Fellow in July 2024. He completed his PhD in Neuroscience at the University of British Columbia, focusing on using machine learning to predict the risk of fatal overdose in addiction psychiatry. Andy has published multiple international manuscripts and collaborated with global experts.
Hedayat Zarkoob, Postdoctoral Research and Teaching Fellow, MDS Vancouver
"The MDS program is a collaboration between the computer science and statistics departments at UBC with a comprehensive curriculum that covers many crucial topics required to train a future data scientist in the industry, without ignoring the fundamentals, such as core computer science and statistics topics and ethical considerations."
Hedayat (Heddy) joined the MDS program in August 2024 as a postdoctoral teaching and research fellow. He did his PhD in computer science at UBC. During his PhD, he studied the intersection of AI and Education, focusing on using AI and technology to promote Active Learning practices in academic settings. Outside his academic life, Heddy is a nature enthusiast, a hiker, and a ski instructor.
Milad Maymay, Director, Program Operations and Student Management, MDS Vancouver
"Nearly all the employers I talk to are starting to recognize [or appreciate] the real need for trained and knowledgeable staff who can help them not only make sense of, but also develop the thread of a story, from the vast amount of data that is out there."
Milad Maymay received his Bachelor of Science at the University of British Columbia. He has over 17 years of experience managing projects and programs in both the non-profit and public sectors. At UBC he has managed the Work Study/Work Learn program, the NSERC Undergraduate Research Awards, and the launch of the CareersOnline management system. A trained career educator, he has experience in helping students explore career options, write resumes and cover letters, practise interview skills, and negotiate salaries. Over the years he has built excellent relationships with the local employer community, which helps MDS students achieve their ultimate goal of a fulfilling career as a data scientist.
Jean Caballero, Program Manager, MDS Vancouver
"I am passionate about the field of data science and look forward to connecting with employers, program alumni, and enthusiastic students who share my dedication to this exciting discipline."
Jean Caballero is an accomplished professional with over 7 years of experience in an administrative support role at UBC. Holding a Bachelor of Arts degree from Simon Fraser University, she has a strong academic foundation. Previously, Jean served as an executive assistant to the Computer Science Department Head, refining her organizational and administrative skills. In her current role as MDS Program Assistant, her focus is on supporting program operations, assisting students, and ensuring a seamless learning experience for all involved.
Angela Pau, Career Advisor, MDS Vancouver
“The continued growth of Data Science jobs across many different industries and the ability to impact business, community and societal decisions makes this a really exciting field of work to be in.”
Angela Pau is an advisor and educator with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals to reach their career goals. She has a Bachelor of Arts from Simon Fraser University and has experience working in both the public and non-profit sector. At UBC she has developed career programming for both undergraduate and graduate students across a multitude of faculties and departments. She also has experience collaborating with campus partners to develop and implement career development strategies for international students and mentoring programs. Since joining MDS, Angela is excited to be making so many new connections to employers, MDS alumni and students who are passionate about Data Science.
Ben Chen, Course Coordinator, MDS Vancouver
"Becoming an MDS is like getting a superhero cape for your career—only instead of saving the world, you’re saving data from chaos!"
Ben joined the MDS program in July 2024 as a course coordinator. Born in Taiwan and primarily raised in Shanghai, he completed his undergraduate studies in Hong Kong before earning his Master’s degree at the UBC MDS program. In his spare time, Ben enjoys staying active through swimming, running, and playing basketball. On more relaxed days, he indulges in his passion for anime while lounging in bed.
"I am always amazed and blown away with all the students who pass through the MDS program. They all come from diverse backgrounds who learn from each other as they go through this intensive 10-month program on their path to a new career in data science."
Vanessa Ho obtained her Bachelor's of Journalism degree from the University of Regina and worked for four years as a technology journalist in Toronto. Vanessa moved back to Vancouver in 2008 and transitioned into a career as a digital content creator for a variety of technology companies in the Vancouver area. She started at the MDS program in 2018 as the marketing coordinator chronicling the MDS student journey. Outside of MDS, Vanessa is a pop culture enthusiast and enjoys biking and baking.
Hema Ratnasami, Senior Graduate Program Assistant, MDS Vancouver
“With the vast amount of data in the world, learning about the creative ways in which students use data to make meaningful insights is inspiring.”
Hema Ratnasami completed her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology at the University of Northern British Columbia in Prince George. After which she returned to the Lower Mainland to work in Human Resources at a local aerospace company. She has been an administrative staff member at UBC since 2020 starting with Financial Operations before moving onto the School of Biomedical Engineering. In all her roles, she has gained valuable experience using data to support operational needs. As the Senior Graduate Program Assistant for MDS, she hopes to support students as they make their way through the program.
Zac Warham, Course Coordinator, MDS Vancouver
"I love how data science skills are used to show the breadth of knowledge in all fields, particularly for marine biology in my case. The more visuals the better!"
Zac move to Canada from Australia in August of 2021 and joined the MDS team in January 2022 as a TA whilst studying his Masters of Science in Oceans and Fisheries at UBC. Prior to his time at UBC, Zac worked as an IT Support Assistant and an Aquarium Aquarist whilst he studied a combination of Marine Biology & Web Development. Zac looks forward to being a part of the learning journey for the next generation of data scientists.
Okanagan
Irene Vrbik, Assistant Professor, MDS Okanagan
“The need for Data Scientists has grown rapidly over a relatively short amount of time. I am proud to be contributing to a program that is keeping pace with this demand.”
Irene Vrbik completed her PhD in Statistics at the University of Guelph and is a newly appointed instructor at the University of British Columbia Okanagan. As a former NSERC Postdoctoral Fellow (UBC Okanagan) and postdoctoral researcher (McGill University), her research has covered a range of topics including: modelling the spread of fire, developing semi-supervised learning algorithms, presenting theoretical results for robust distributions, and analyzing HIV transmission dynamics with phylogenetic data.
Sonya Thomlinson, Career Advisor, MDS Okanagan and Computational Linguistics
“Data Science is a vast and exciting field with the potential to create enormous impact across all sectors and industries. I’m thrilled to be part of one of the highest rated Data Science Professional Programs in Canada."
Sonya Thomlinson has been an entrepreneur for over 20 years as a founder of multiple businesses as well as a US non-profit. Sonya has been building relationships and working with individuals to help them attain their career goals in the MDS program at UBC Okanagan and CL in Vancouver. Since joining UBC in 2022, Sonya has enjoyed the energy and excitement on campus and is passionate about helping students prepare for their future careers, discover their own areas of passion, and ensure that they have the tools to succeed to their fullest potential.
Jessica Collins, Program Assistant, MDS Okanagan
“I am excited to get to be a part of the MDS Okanagan program as the Professional Program Assistant and to support the students with their journey in this program.”
Jessica Collins received her Bachelor of Commerce from the UBC Vancouver Sauder School of Business and has since spent time working for the Province of BC and several small communities. She has worked on the UBC Okanagan campus since 2021 in various administrative roles supporting students and faculty members. Through these experiences, she has gained experience in working with diverse groups of people, providing support for them to reach their goals and navigating the post-secondary environment.
Jeff Andrews, Principal Co-Director and Associate Professor, MDS Okanagan (On Leave)
“The MDS program has been a shining example of inter-disciplinary and inter-campus collaboration, culminating in a professional degree that employers, alumni, instructors, and current students all value. I am proud to be a part of it."
Jeff Andrews is an associate professor of statistics and leads the Statistical Machine Learning Laboratory at UBC’s Okanagan Campus. His research primarily focuses on unsupervised machine learning with mixture models, including model development, implementation, and optimization. He has been a recipient of two international awards for his research in this field: the 2017 Chikio Hayashi Award for Young Researchers from the International Federation of Classification Societies, and the 2013 Distinguished Dissertation Award from the Classification Society. He has attracted more than $200k in research funding as a primary investigator since joining UBC in 2015, and more than triple that as co-investigator on several collaborative and interdisciplinary projects—such as the Medical Physics and Data Analytics Cluster. Beyond his academic research, he has consulting experience from a diverse range of industries --- including sport management, food product evaluation, workplace safety, biomedical instruments, heavy machinery, and the financial sector.
