Francesca Lazzeri is an accomplished scientist who works with machine learning, artificial intelligence, and applied econometrics. Today she works at Microsoft as Director of AI and Data Science where she leads 8 teams of 50 data scientists and machine learning scientists to develop a portfolio of machine learning and AI services that serves other internal teams. She also teaches "Introduction to Artificial Intelligence with Python" at Columbia University.
Before joining Microsoft, she was a research fellow at Harvard University in the Technology and Operations Management Unit.
We covered a wide range of topics related to artificial intelligence, data science, and emerging technologies. We discussed how AI, econometrics, and data are intersecting in new ways to drive insights and innovation. The evolution of data science and data scientist roles was examined, along with techniques for quantifying phenomena like hallucinations. For enterprises, we talked about best practices for responsibly leveraging AI while avoiding pitfalls like hallucinated content from large language models. Throughout the podcast, we touched on the distinction between concepts like machine learning, neural networks, generative learning, and more. Other applications like image generation were covered, along with methods for validating AI model outputs. Overall, it was a thought-provoking look at how AI and data analytics are rapidly evolving and being applied across industries.
Overall, the podcast was a captivating exploration of how AI and data science are shaping industries and transforming businesses. Francesca's contributions and expertise have undoubtedly inspired many, and her work continues to drive advancements in AI. As the world continues to embrace the potential of AI and data-driven technologies, Francesca's influence will undoubtedly remain a guiding light for AI researchers, data scientists, and innovators.
Francesca Lazzeri on AI and Data Science at Microsoft and in the Enterprise