Data Science Institute

Data Scientist Spotlight

Joseph Wakim

Postdoctoral Researcher

Which directorate/division do you support? Global Security Computing Applications Division in the Computing Directorate

When did you join the Lab? September 2024

What did you study in your path to this career? I studied chemical engineering and mathematics at the University of Massachusetts (UMass) Lowell, then earned a PhD in chemical engineering from Stanford. During my PhD, I completed a minor in biomedical data science, which introduced me to the fundamentals of artificial intelligence. Recognizing my interdisciplinary background, I was invited to help develop an introductory machine learning course for engineers. I taught that course for four terms, both to Stanford students and to engineers at Applied Materials in Santa Clara, CA. Those teaching experiences were very positive; they helped me explain technical concepts more clearly and become more comfortable with public speaking. They also motivated me to pursue mentorship and teaching opportunities here at the Lab.

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