Predicting Responsibly: Claudia Perlich on AI, Bias, and the Art of Data Science

Predicting Responsibly: Claudia Perlich on AI, Bias, and the Art of Data Science

Author: Professor Margot Gerritsen, Chisoo Lyons January 16, 2025 Duration: 46:02
Claudia Perlich, a leading expert in predictive modeling shares about her work and views on the challenges of using AI and machine learning systems. Perlich discusses the importance of understanding the uncertainty and biases inherent in these models, and the need for careful evaluation and testing before deploying them, especially in high-stakes domains. She emphasizes the collective responsibility of data scientists, domain experts, and decision-makers to ensure these systems are used responsibly and equitably. She also shares insights on the skills and mindset needed for a successful career in predictive modeling, highlighting the value of data curiosity, scientific thinking, and effective communication.

Hosted by Professor Margot Gerritsen and Chisoo Lyons, Women in Data Science Worldwide is a conversation with researchers and practitioners at the forefront of a rapidly evolving field. Each episode moves beyond abstract theory to explore the tangible, often surprising, ways data science is applied. You’ll hear firsthand accounts of analytical work creating change, whether it’s developing new models for patient care, building equitable financial systems, or parsing complex climate datasets. The discussions are grounded in the professional journeys of the guests, who offer practical advice and reflect on the challenges they’ve navigated. This podcast provides a direct audio connection to a global community of experts, highlighting the diverse thought and innovation driven by women in the discipline. Listening reveals the human story behind the algorithms and the collective effort shaping the future of technology across every sector. It’s an ongoing series for anyone curious about the real-world impact of data, from students to seasoned professionals, offering perspective and insight naturally through each guest’s experience.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Women in Data Science Worldwide
Podcast Episodes
Using Storytelling to Communicate with Stakeholders [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:27
Michelle Katics, CEO and co-founder of BankersLab, emphasizes the significance of merging technical, business, and soft skills in risk management training. She stresses the value of simplifying complex ideas through stor…
Data Science Leadership: Creating Meaningful Impact [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:15
In this episode, Mary Krone explores her career shift from a PhD in chemistry and biochemistry to data science, where she builds financial credit models. She highlights her work’s tangible impact and discusses the challe…
Kate Kolich on Mentorship, Data Ethics, and Leadership [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:47
Kate Kolich serves as the Assistant Governor and the General Manager of Information Data and Analytics at the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. With an extensive background in the financial sector, she also has significant pu…
Srujana Kaddevarmuth | Opening New Realms of Data Science and AI [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:52
Srujana Kaddevarmuth is the current senior director of the Data and Machine Learning Center of Excellence at Walmart. She has had an illustrious career in the tech industry, having also worked as manager of data and mach…
Veronica Edwards | The Bridge Between Dance and Data Science [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:19
Veronica Edwards is a dancer and choreographer who, after finding that physics was not in fact the major she wanted, studied sociology at Princeton University. In her words, she stumbled into her first job after graduati…
Jane Lauder | Using Data Science to Create Aspirational Products [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:21
Jane Lauder, Chief Data Officer at Estée Lauder, explains how Estée Lauder combines data science with creativity to connect with their consumers, create aspirational products and support the longevity of their brands.
Priya Donti | Using AI to Fight the Climate Crisis [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:49
Priya Donti, Executive Director of Climate Change AI, explains multiple ways that machine learning and AI can be used to mitigate climate change. Her work at the intersection of climate change, computer science, and data…
Leda Braga | Applying data science to investment strategies [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:37
Leda Braga is the founder and CEO of Systematica Investments, a hedge fund known for using data science-driven models to support its investment strategies. She explains how systematic investment management is data scienc…