Bryan Christ

Why pursue a Ph.D. in Data Science?

As a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Virginia's School of Data Science, I focus on developing and advancing methodology for the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to mathematical reasoning and education, particularly testing, assessment, and curriculum development. As a former teacher and educational nonprofit leader with a social science background, I took a nontraditional path to data science, but one that gives me a deep understanding of how data science and AI can be appropriately, ethically and effectively applied to support lifelong education and social good more broadly. Some of my research projects include:

1. developing a method to isolate math-specific parameters in Large Language Models (LLMs), which allows improvements to math reasoning without catastrophic forgetting
2. developing methodology and synthetic data to train LLMs as age-appropriate, educational, and customizable math word problem generators for K-8 students
3. a combined approach of using LLMs and community-based participatory research to develop psychologically valid scales to measure understudied psychological phenomena, including internalized ableism
4. using machine learning models to explore and predict the impact of previous educational experiences on current life outcomes for adults with a disability
5. conducting statistical analyses to validate the use of educational/psychological tests with diverse populations, including factor analysis, invariance, and normative data generation.

I am motivated to provide all individuals with the customized educational opportunities and supports they need to reach their full potential and thrive.