Ten years ago, it was fair to ask, “How do I get a job in data science?” The field was still emerging and career tracks had yet to be fully built out. Today, there are a wealth of positions available, and the question has become: “What job should I get in data science?”
For Sahar Mazloom, the answer to that question is: “What interests you most?”
Mazloom, a senior research scientist at JPMorgan Chase, works at the intersection of artificial intelligence and cryptography. She developed a passion for AI and cryptography during her doctoral program and found herself wanting to make an impact in both areas. Her passion evolved into expertise and landed her a role as a researcher at JPMorgan Chase’s recently formed AlgoCRYPT Center of Excellence.
“My typical day involves conducting cutting-edge research, exploring advanced algorithms and devising methodologies to enable secure and private computing on highly sensitive financial data,” Mazloom said. “What excites me the most is being at the forefront of merging two leading-edge fields.”
Mazloom’s path to a fulfilling career at the fore of data science is just one example of the rich opportunities cropping up in the growing field. Read on to learn more about how Mazloom found her niche in the field and the advice she has for people trying to do the same.
JPMorgan Chase is a global banking and financial services company.
What does your day look like at JPMorgan Chase, and what is exciting about it?
As a senior research scientist in the J.P. Morgan AI Research and the AlgoCRYPT Center of Excellence, I specialize in the intersection of artificial intelligence and cryptography — with a specific focus on computing encrypted data and secure distributed AI computation. I collaborate with a team of experts to develop innovative solutions that bring security and privacy into the realm of artificial intelligence and our AI-powered financial solutions.
What excites me the most is witnessing the potential impact that can have on data privacy and security, and developing solutions that are most impactful to the firm’s clients and businesses.
What influenced you to choose this career track in data?
Throughout my academic journey, I developed a great passion for training and using computers to assist humans in various domains, ranging from helping in physical tasks to critical thinking. Learning how AI can give computers the ability to learn without explicitly being programmed fascinated me. However, as I delved deeper into the field, I realized the importance of data quality and the need to protect privacy in AI systems. This realization led me to explore the field of secure computation and computing on encrypted data.
I was captivated by the idea of enabling computations on private data without compromising its confidentiality. The opportunity to contribute to advancements in cryptography and AI, while simultaneously addressing the crucial issue of data privacy, motivated me to pursue this career track and makes my work truly exhilarating today.
What advice would you give to someone considering the different career tracks?
Data science is a rapidly evolving field, with new technologies and methodologies constantly emerging. When considering different tracks, prioritize the areas that excite you most and align with your long-term goals, whether it’s machine learning, natural language processing, machine vision or another specialization. Evaluate your existing skills and strengths to determine which career tracks leverage your expertise and offer growth opportunities, but stay updated on market trends and emerging technologies so you can make informed decisions about paths that remain in demand. This is crucial.
When considering different tracks, prioritize the areas that excite you most and align with your long-term goals.”
Embrace a mindset of lifelong learning and invest in your professional development. Seek mentorship and network with experienced professionals in your preferred field so you can gain insights, expand your knowledge and make worthwhile connections. Remember that the field of data science offers a wide range of exciting opportunities. Choosing a path that aligns with your passions and goals will set you on a fulfilling and rewarding professional journey.
