Breadcrumb

People

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
    Mikka - MDS Computational Linguistics

    Miikka Silfverberg, Assistant Professor, MDS Computational Linguistics

    “The amount of useful language data on the internet is vast and continuously growing. The MDS Computational Linguistics program makes you an expert at processing and understanding language data using cutting-edge technologies such as deep neural networks.”

    Miikka Silfverberg joined MDS Computational Linguistics program as an Assistant Professor in 2020. Miikka has a PhD in Language Technology and an M.Sc in Mathematics from the University of Helsinki. After completing his PhD, Miikka spent one and a half years as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Colorado at Boulder where he worked on topics related to computational modeling of word structure using deep neural networks. Miikka’s research focuses on broadening the understanding of how deep neural networks learn to represent information about language.

    John Thompson, Master of Data Science Okanagan

    John Thompson, Assistant Professor, MDS Okanagan

    "The MDS program brings together bright students from various disciplines and trains them in statistics and machine learning skills needed to be successful data scientists. I'm excited to participate in a program dedicated to developing the quantitative skills needed for handling modern, complex data problems."

    John R.J. Thompson is an assistant professor of statistics at UBC's Okanagan campus whose areas of expertise are nonparametric statistics and machine learning. John's statistical research interests lie in nonparametric statistics, clustering, metric learning, climate risk evaluation through direct and indirect environmental impacts, modelling the behaviours of Canadian investors under the guidance of financial advisors, and designing effective financial measures and Robo-tools that aid financial advisors in supporting their clients' investment portfolios. John is a member of Canada's Financial Wellness Lab, which aims to develop data-driven tools that Canadians can use to improve their financial resilience, reduce financial stress, and support better financial decision-making.

    Irene Vrbik

    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.

    Jian Zhu, Assistant Professor of Teaching, Master of Data Science Computational Linguistics

    Jian Zhu, Assistant Professor, MDS Computational Linguistics

    "I am thrilled to be teaching the MDS-CL program at a time when Natural Language Processing (NLP) is advancing at a rapid pace. With breakthroughs in deep learning, we are witnessing a revolution in the way machines understand and process human language. As an instructor, I am excited to share my knowledge and expertise with the students, and to guide them as they explore the latest NLP techniques and technologies. It is an exciting time to be at the forefront of this field, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for NLP and its applications."

    Jian Zhu received his Ph.D. degree in Linguistics and Scientific Computing from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor in 2022. After his Ph.D., Jian had conducted NLP research both in the industry and in the academia. Before joining UBC, Jian was a post-doctoral research fellow in the School of Information at University of Michigan, working on the large-scale computational sociolinguistics. His current research interests lie in teaching machines to recognize spoken languages across the world and unstanding people's linguistic behavior in the online communities through large-scale computational methods. 

    Learn more about Jian.

    Milad Maymay

    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.

    Kenna McEwan Master of Data Science Computational Linguistics

    Kenna McEwan, Program Manager, MDS Computational Linguistics

    “I’m inspired by the work ethic and drive of the MDS students and am excited to support students in creating a healthy learning environment as they delve into the study of data science”

    Kenna McEwan is born and raised in British Columbia and received her Bachelors in Linguistics at the University of British Columbia. Prior to taking on the Masters of Data Science - Computational Linguistics Program Manager role, she has worked at UBC in both undergraduate and research-based graduate programs, where she gained skills in navigating post-secondary administration. Kenna is committed to supporting students in having a positive experience during their time in the program, from application to graduation. 

    Angela Pau

    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. 

    Sonya Thomlinson, Master of Data Science Okanagan and Computational Linguistics Career Advisor

    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. 

    Master of Data Science Vancouver Jean Caballero

    Jean Caballero, Senior Graduate Program Assistant, 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.

    Christel Deas, Master of Data Science

    Christel Deas, Program Assistant, MDS Okanagan

    “I am honoured to be the Professional Program Assistant for MDS Okanagan and I really enjoy connecting with students, alumni, faculty and external partners of this amazing program.”

    Christel Deas has worked in many administrative roles over her lengthy career. Previously, Christel was the Rural Liaison Coordinator with the UBC Faculty of Medicine’s Family Practice Residency Program. She has also worked with public radio and in the legal profession, increasing her administrative knowledge base.

    In her current role as MDS Okanagan Program Assistant, Christel supports the program operations, assists faculty, students and prospective students, in all aspects of providing the MDS Okanagan program.