Ronaldas Macas

Data Scientist @ Nasdaq

Biography

I am interested in data science problems. An expert in time-series analysis, signal processing, statistical modelling and machine-learning applications. Previously searched for exploding stars from the most sensitive instrument in the world.

Interests

Machine learning
Statistical modelling
Software development
Gravitational waves

Education

PhD in Astrophysics, 2016-2020
Cardiff University
MSci in Physics and Astronomy, 2011-2016
University of Glasgow

Work Experience

Data Scientist Senior Specialist

Nasdaq

May 2024 – Present Vilnius, Lithuania

Developing Generative AI & Machine Learning solutions.

Data Scientist

University of Porstmouth

Sep 2023 – Dec 2023 Portsmouth, United Kingdom

Analysing audio, GPS and temperature data from the GB Row Challenge 2023:

Identified underwater noise levels around Great Britain using Python, scikit-learn, and spectral analysis
Created a machine-learning algorithm to detect dolphins and ship engines in the audio data resulting in 40% more detections
Reduced false alarms by 20% by developing an automated tool to recognize when the microplastic pump was turned on while rowing

Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation

Sep 2020 – Aug 2023 Portsmouth, United Kingdom

Responsibilities include:

Software development in Python, JAX, PyMC, TensorFlow and PyTorch
Leading and training a group of ~30 people to investigate gravitational-wave data quality around astrophysical events
Closely interacting and working with various research groups within the LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA scientific collaboration to build automated gravitational-wave data quality tools
Student supervision
Public outreach

PhD student in Gravitational Physics

Cardiff University

Oct 2016 – Aug 2020 Portsmouth, United Kingdom

Responsibilities include:

Software development in Python and Matlab
Leading and training a group of ~10 people to search for gravitational waves associated with Gamma-ray bursts
Presenting the group’s work within the LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA scientific collaboration, at various seminars and international conferences
Student teaching
Public outreach
Men’s Basketball Club president