In the constantly evolving world of technology, data science and artificial intelligence are buzzwords that have revolutionized industries far and wide. Set to impart wisdom on this transformative subject is Nicos Savva, the Professor and Chair of the Management Science and Operations Faculty at London Business School. An authority in data science, Professor Savva's credentials extend from consulting for hospitals and biotech companies to hedge funds and retail firms. On September 28th, from 10:00 am to 13:00 pm at the University of Nicosia, he will lead an exclusive Masterclass titled "Data Science & AI", organized by the Life Changing Ideas initiative. This session, limited to just 50 senior executives, promises to be an engaging and enlightening exploration of the profound implications of data science and AI in the business world. Tickes can be found here. 

Prompted by this upcoming Masterclass, we seized the opportunity to sit down with Professor Savva to gain a deeper understanding of the topics he will delve into. During our conversation, he provides a sneak peek into the crux of the Masterclass - from bridging the divide between the technicalities of data science and their tangible impacts on businesses to exploring the revolutionary facets of generative AI, like ChatGPT. Further, he touches upon the ethical considerations surrounding AI and offers insights into the brainstorming session that aims to foster collaboration and ideation among participants.

Certainly! In our Data Science & AI Masterclass, we aim to take the participants on a journey that helps them bridge the gap between the technical intricacies and their real-world implications in businesses. We'll discuss what data science and business analytics can and cannot achieve. Then, we'll deep-dive into machine learning, emphasizing its reliance on human input. We'll showcase recent breakthroughs in generative AI, like ChatGPT, and discuss their disruptive potential in knowledge-based sectors. The session will also explore how companies leverage data science to generate value, sometimes succeeding and occasionally faltering. Additionally, we'll touch upon the ethical concerns, such as potential biases leading to discrimination. All this, paired with interactive brainstorming and a hands-on approach, ensures participants leave with a comprehensive grasp of the subject.

The brainstorming session is designed to foster collaboration and ideation. Participants will work in smaller groups, discussing potential data science applications within their sectors. We'll provide guiding questions and real-world scenarios to stimulate thought. A primary goal is for each participant to walk away with actionable insights tailored to their business, having gained perspectives from different industries and leveraging collective intelligence. Moreover, a secondary, yet equally important goal for me personally, is to learn more about the unique impact data science can have in Cyprus. Engaging with professionals on the ground will offer invaluable insights into the region's specific challenges and opportunities.

Our approach is hands-on and example-driven. Instead of delving deep into the mathematical complexities, we'll use games, relatable analogies, and visual aids.

Great question! The Masterclass focuses on fundamental principles that remain constant, regardless of technological advancements. However, by highlighting cutting-edge examples, like ChatGPT, and facilitating discussions around emerging trends, we ensure that participants are not just informed but are also primed to continue their learning journey post-session. The key is adaptability and fostering a mindset of continuous learning.

The beauty of Data Science & AI is that they are fundamentally industry-agnostic. Their principles and tools can be adapted and applied to virtually any sector,  whether it's optimizing supply chains in retail, predicting financial markets in banking, or enhancing patient care in healthcare. However, each industry must consider its unique challenges, data structures, and goals to harness the full potential of these technologies.

While the opportunities are limitless across all sectors, I do hold a special hope for breakthroughs in biotech. The convergence of AI with biotechnological research possesses an immense potential to revolutionize drug discovery, biomedical devices, healthcare delivery, and more. In my mind, such advancements stand out, not just for their economic potential, but more so for their profound ability to cure disease and improve human lives.

What: Masterclass, organized by Life Changing Ideas

Title: Data Science & AI

When: September 28, 10:00-13:00

Where: Live in Class, University of Nicosia

Tickets: Click here 

Who: Nicos Savva is the Professor of Management Science and Operations and serves as the Chair of the Management Science and Operations Faculty at London Business School. He holds an MA, MPhil, and PhD from Cambridge University, and he's an expert in data science, using it to solve operational problems and help large organizations develop data science capabilities. Nicos also advises on the policy implications of algorithms and regularly consults and works with hospitals, biotech companies, high-tech start-ups, retail firms and hedge funds. He has also taught at The Wharton School, Columbia GSB, and Judge Business School, University of Cambridge. In 2019, Professor Savva was selected as one of the 40 best business school professors under 40 by Poets & Quants.