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 the book Data Protection in Humanitarian Action: Responding to Crises in a Data-Driven World. Of note, they share insights on how data regulation is shaping privacy and security for vulnerable communities and the role of international frameworks in addressing these challenges.

We're excited to welcome Margaux Jacks as the new host of our podcast. Margaux is the Creative Manager at the UVA School of Data Science, and producer of the podcast. She is thrilled to bring conversations about the world of data science to our listeners. We are incredibly grateful to Monica Manney for her wonderful work on the previous episodes.

• (00:00:03) - UVA Data Points: Data Governance in the humanitarian sector
• (00:00:49) - The Impact of Data Protection in Humanitarian Action
• (00:02:26) - The Digital Future of the Humanitarian Sector
• (00:04:56) - Data Protection in the Humanitarian World
• (00:09:54) - The role of data in the humanitarian sector
• (00:12:57) - Immunity in the Data Protection Sphere
• (00:16:07) - The Relationship between Data and Humanitarianism
• (00:19:53) - Data Protection for the Humanitarian Sector
• (00:24:59) - The Future of Data Protection in the humanitarian sector
• (00:29:34) - Regional engagement in data protection law
• (00:31:45) - Regional networks in the Digital world
• (00:36:08) - The Future of Data Protection
• (00:39:24) - On data protection in humanitarian programming

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 connection shape creativity, innovation, and discovery.

Together, they discuss what happens when data meets art.

• (00:00:01) - Data Points: When Art Meets Science
• (00:00:46) - Ian and Nicole: Introduction
• (00:06:18) - How Stories Get Made
• (00:09:59) - Basket Weaving Visualizing Data
• (00:20:33) - Wonders of the World
• (00:25:47) - Data and Artist Residency
• (00:27:50) - Breaking Habits in Creativity
• (00:30:06) - What is Data Science: Craftsmanship?
• (00:34:50) - How Art Affects Our Understanding of Data

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 bring a wealth of insight into how we can, and must, develop artificial intelligence that is safe, ethical, and accountable.

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, materials design, sports performance, and military innovation—and why graduate researchers like Jack are essential to moving this work forward.

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 Psychology at the University of Virginia; and Lulu Jiang, Assistant Professor of Neuroscience, also at the University of Virginia. Together, they’ll shed light on how brain organoid technology is reshaping our understanding of the brain, and how data science is playing a crucial role in unlocking its secrets.

• (00:00:51) - Brain Organizations
• (00:05:54) - Brain Organoids for drug discovery and immunology
• (00:13:53) - Alzheimer's disease in the organoid system
• (00:15:49) - What are the standards in the field of brain organoids?
• (00:22:44) - Big Data and Intelligence in the Brain
• (00:26:50) - Alzheimer's disease, the human brain
• (00:30:39) - The computational twin of the brain
• (00:37:23) - The quest for precision medicine in the brain
• (00:42:17) - The human brain in an organoid
• (00:43:21) - Will Brain Derived Organoids Replace Animal Models in Neurodegener

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 for students aspiring to make a difference in this space. Whether you're passionate about social impact, curious about launching your own venture, or exploring career paths that combine innovation and public good, this conversation is not to be missed.

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 Software and UVA alumna, who brings experience spanning tech giants like Google and Gusto. Drawing from their wealth of knowledge at the intersection of innovation and enterprise, Reese and Bowers share their unique perspectives on how data science is shaping the future of work and innovation.

From empowering the next generation of data scientists to the real-world impact of AI, this fireside chat dives deep into what it means to build meaningful, transformative careers in data science.

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 world of molecular biology.