UVA Data Points

UVA School of Data Science

UVA Data Points is a data science podcast from the University of Virginia School of Data Science — the nation's first school of data science. Each episode features UVA faculty, researchers, and leading experts in conversation about the topics defining the field: artificial intelligence, machine learning, data ethics, policy, health data, and responsible innovation.

Whether you're a student, researcher, or professional, UVA Data Points brings you in-depth perspectives from the people advancing data science — and shaping how it impacts society.

Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and more. Subscribe and join the conversation.

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25 episodes
Updated June 17

Episodes25

Newest first

June 17 · 47 min
The Future With AI: Policies, Ethics, and Governance
In this episode, we explore the future of artificial intelligence through the lens of policy, ethics, and governance; examining how this rapidly evolving technology is reshaping society and the responsibilities that come with it. Joining the conversation are Renée Cummings, Professor of Practice in Data Science and a leading voice in AI ethics, and Mona Sloane, Assistant Professor of Data Science and Media Studies, whose work focuses on the intersection of technology and society. Together, they
May 13 · 54 min
Forging a Career in Data Science
Interested in what a career in data science can look like? Here, we’re joined by two members of the School of Data Science Advisory Board: Heidi Lanford, co-founder of NavAlytix AI and former Chief Data Officer at Fitch Group, and Kane Geyer, Principal at PwC and most recently the leader of the U.S. and Global Chief Data Office. In conversation with Reggie Leonard from UVA’s School of Data Science, they share perspectives shaped by decades of experience leading data and AI initiatives across glo
April 3 · 58 min
Digital Twins
In this episode of UVA Data Points, we explore the rapidly evolving world of digital brain twins; personalized, data-driven models of the brain that could revolutionize medicine and neuroscience. Joining the conversation are two leading experts: Dr. Randy McIntosh, a pioneer in brain network analysis, and Dr. Emiliano Ricciardi, an expert in cognitive neuroscience and neuroimaging. Together, with Jack Van Horn, Professor with the School of Data Science and Department of Psychology, they'll dive
February 24 · 33 min
Defensibility in Human Trafficking
Would you be able to recognize the subtle red flags that someone is being controlled, exploited, or groomed? In this conversation, we will dive into the complexities of understanding human trafficking and the role AI is playing to help law enforcement identify traffickers and their victims. Our guests are Kimberly Adams, who leads the strategic architecture of AINA Tech, and Shweta Jain, AINA’s Co-Founder and Technical Architect, whose background in digital forensics and cybersecurity shapes the
Dec 16, 2025 · 41 min
Data Protection in Humanitarian Action
In this episode, we explore data governance in the humanitarian sector. Our guests are Massimo Marelli, Head of the Data Protection Office at the International Committee of the Red Cross, and Ana Beduschi, a Professor of Law and Strategic Lead on the Fair and Inclusive Society at the Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (IDSAI) at the University of Exeter. The conversation is led by Aaron Martin Assistant Professor of Data Science here at UVA. Together, they discuss topics from
Nov 20, 2025 · 37 min
Data Meets Art
Here we explore the intersections of data, art, and storytelling. Our guest, Nathalie Miebach, is an internationally-recognized data artist and the School of Data Science’s inaugural Artist-in-Residence. Using materials like reed and paper, she transforms complex datasets into woven sculptures and musical scores, inviting us to view and even hear data in new ways. Joining her is Alex Gates, assistant professor of data science at the University of Virginia research examines how patterns of connec
Oct 22, 2025 · 31 min
Extreme Physics
In this episode, we explore how data science is helping researchers simulate and understand some of the most extreme physical events on Earth, from floods in Texas to hypersonic flight. Our guests are Stephen Baek, a leading expert in geometric deep learning and associate professor of data science at the University of Virginia, and Jack Beerman, a Ph.D. student whose work is already shaping real-world applications. Together, they discuss how AI is transforming fields like weather forecasting, ma
Sep 19, 2025 · 26 min
Trustworthy AI
Here we dive into one of the most timely and important topics in tech: Trustworthy AI. What does it really mean for artificial intelligence to be “trustworthy”? And why should it matter to you? To help us unpack these questions, we’re joined by Farhana Faruqe, a data scientist, researcher, and entrepreneur, specializing in research related to Trustworthy AI, and Dr. Larry Medsker, a leading expert in AI ethics and policy. With experience in neural networks, AI systems, and policy-making, the two
Aug 18, 2025 · 48 min
Brain Organoids: Unlocking Mysteries of Neuroscience
In this episode, we’re diving into a fascinating intersection of cutting-edge science and data innovation. As technology continues to evolve, researchers are increasingly turning to brain organoids, (miniature, lab-grown models of the human brain) to unravel some of the most complex mysteries of neuroscience. We’re joined by three brain organoid experts: Thomas Hartung, Professor of Environmental Health and Engineering at Johns Hopkins University; Jack Van Horn, Professor of Data Science and Psy
Jun 17, 2025 · 57 min
Venture Meets Mission: A Conversation with Arun Gupta
Explore how entrepreneurship and innovation can intersect with public service to drive meaningful impact. Join Dean Philip Bourne and the UVA School of Data Science community for an inspiring conversation with Arun Gupta, CEO of the NobleReach Foundation and author of Venture Meets Mission. Drawing from his extensive experience, Gupta will share insights on creating ventures with a mission-driven focus, discuss trends shaping the future of public service innovation, and offer practical advice f
May 20, 2025 · 1 hr 2 min
Women in Data Science, Charlottesville
In this episode, we welcome you to the 2025 Women in Data Science Charlottesville event hosted at the University of Virginia School of Data Science. WiDS Charlottesville seeks to increase the participation of women in data science and feature outstanding women doing outstanding work. Leading the conversation is Lisa Bowers, a former executive with Genentech/Roche and current director of UVA’s Enterprise Studio. She is joined by our keynote speaker Lexi Reese, CEO and Co-Founder of Lanai Softwar
Apr 23, 2025 · 30 min
Exploring the Protein Universe via AI
Here we explore how data science is revolutionizing our understanding of protein structures, with a special focus on the exciting developments in protein folding and evolution. We’re joined by two experts in the field: Philip Bourne, the founding dean of the UVA School of Data Science, and Cam Mura, a biomolecular data scientist. From new tools like DeepUrfold to the future of biomedical applications, Bourne and Mura provide a unique look into how cutting-edge technology is transforming the worl
Mar 18, 2025 · 42 min
The Transformative Role of AI in the Credit Industry
UVA School of Data Science graduates pursue many career paths, including government, health care, technology, retail, and... finance. In this episode, we hear from two UVA data science alumni who put their data science degrees to work every day in their roles at Octus, a financial services company that uses data to provide insights to its clients in banking and legal services. They discuss the integration of AI into various industries, the challenges of information overload, and the role of hum
Feb 20, 2025 · 36 min
Surviving the Data Deluge
One of the most pressing challenges in our increasingly data-driven world is the Data Deluge—the overwhelming flood of information that we generate and record every single day. With us are three experts from the University of Virginia’s School of Data Science. Phil Bourne, a professor of biomedical engineering and the founding dean of the school of data science, is joined by Terence Johnson and Alex Gates, both assistant professors of data science. Together, they have been exploring innovative m
Jan 21, 2025 · 43 min
Transforming Spotify Data Into Art
Many of us look forward to our Spotify wrapped at the end of the year. It's fun to see your whole year in music reflected back to you in the form of auras and moods and, of course, ranked lists, all powered by the cold, hard data of our listening habits. But there's so much more data available to visualize as art. That's what our guest, Pete Cybriwsky does. Pete is an entrepreneur and an award winning artist building at the intersection of data and art. In this podcast, you'll hear him in conver
Dec 20, 2024 · 46 min
Misinformation and Image Manipulation in a Polarized America
In recent elections, the rise of misleading content—ranging from manipulated images to false narratives—has sparked growing concerns about misinformation and disinformation. How does this wave of deceptive content deepen political divides, shape voter perceptions, and erode trust? And what does it mean for our access to reliable information? Last month, the UVA Karsh Institute of Democracy and the School of Data Science co-hosted an in-depth discussion to ask these pressing questions and uncover
Nov 14, 2024 · 49 min
¡Viva la Ciencia de Datos en UVA!
Data science is an incredibly diverse and global field of study and practice. In order to tackle some of our most challenging issues ranging from climate change to cognition, we need data and data scientists from all over the world to make advances in research, technology and innovation. To talk about their research interests and the importance of having diverse, global perspectives in the field of data science, this episode of UVA Data Points features a conversation by Javier Rasero, Assistant
Apr 19, 2024 · 37 min
Rebroadcast | Future Home of the UVA School of Data Science
The UVA School of Data Science was formed in September 2019 and has since grown in its collaborations, partnerships, program offerings, and teaching and research personnel. We are now constructing a new facility that will house the School of Data Science at the University of Virginia. The new building is in the first phase of development and, once complete, will link the University's Central Grounds with the athletic fields and North Grounds. The 60,000-square-foot building is the future home of
Feb 6, 2024 · 1 hr 12 min
The AI Playbook | A Conversation with Eric Siegel
In his new book, The AI Playbook: Mastering the Rare Art of Machine Learning Deployment, Eric Siegel offers a detailed playbook for how business professionals can launch machine learning projects, providing both success stories where private industry got it right as well as cautionary tales others can learn from. Siegel laid out the key findings of his book in our latest episode during a wide-ranging conversation with Marc Ruggiano, director of the University of Virginia’s Collaboratory for Appl
Jan 8, 2024 · 1 hr 1 min
The Future of Data Science Education | Live from Datapalooza
This panel delves into how the faculty at UVA's School of Data Science are actively working to craft a liberal arts curriculum suitable for the digital age, one that not only adapts to but embraces changes in technology and practice. The panel discusses the future of data science education, including in K-12, the school’s guiding philosophy for its undergraduate and graduate programs (minor, B.S., online and residential M.S., Ph.D.), and the merits as well as challenges that arise when construct

UVA Data Points

The Future With AI: Policies, Ethics, and Governance

Forging a Career in Data Science

Digital Twins

Defensibility in Human Trafficking

Data Protection in Humanitarian Action

Data Meets Art

Extreme Physics

Trustworthy AI

Brain Organoids: Unlocking Mysteries of Neuroscience

Venture Meets Mission: A Conversation with Arun Gupta

Women in Data Science, Charlottesville

Exploring the Protein Universe via AI

The Transformative Role of AI in the Credit Industry

Surviving the Data Deluge

Transforming Spotify Data Into Art

Misinformation and Image Manipulation in a Polarized America

¡Viva la Ciencia de Datos en UVA!

Rebroadcast | Future Home of the UVA School of Data Science

The AI Playbook | A Conversation with Eric Siegel

The Future of Data Science Education | Live from Datapalooza