Researchers

Justin Maharaj is completing his MSc in Data Science at The University of the West Indies, with research focused on operations research, optimization, and resource-constrained scheduling within calibration laboratories. He holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering and has professional experience in calibration, metrology, laboratory operations, and quality management environments governed by ISO 9001 and ISO/IEC 17025 standards. His work has involved the development of software and data-driven solutions to improve laboratory processes, including scheduling, equipment management, and reporting. His research interests include mathematical optimization, scheduling, applied data science, and the use of analytical methods to improve decision-making and operational efficiency in engineering and industrial systems.

TBD

Andrew is a Senior Software Developer at RBC Financial Caribbean. He holds a B.A. in Engineering Science from Trinity College in Hartford, CT, and an M.Sc. in Data Science from UWI St. Augustine. He spends most of his time building backend systems and automating deployment pipelines in a regulated banking environment, and along the way has gotten hands-on with applying AI and large language models to real business problems. He’s interested in federated learning and reversible data hiding, and is hoping to bring his applied AI and systems engineering background to TTLAB’s deployment-focused projects. Outside of work, he enjoys swimming, traveling, and reading.

Darrian Paul is a biotechnology researcher and multidisciplinary analyst whose work spans biotechnology, renewable energy, energy policy, and sustainable development. He holds a BSc in Biotechnology from University College London, with research experience in synthetic biology, algal biotechnology, biofuels, biochemical engineering, and the development of biological systems for industrial applications. Darrian currently works as an Analyst at the Lloyd Best Institute of the Caribbean, where he conducts research on energy systems, the energy transition, national development, and socio-economic issues across the Caribbean and internationally. His work has included comparative energy-sector analysis, renewable-energy policy, sustainable technology, and health initiatives. He has presented at regional conferences, contributed to public and policy discussions on energy and development, and co-hosts the Exposing the Gap podcast, which examines issues affecting Trinidad and Tobago’s development and younger generations.

Sahra Ramdath holds a B.Sc. in Economics with First Class Honours from The University of the West Indies. She is interested in the intersection of data, technology and public policy, particularly how evidence can be used to address social and economic challenges. Through her professional experience as a Digital Transformation Analyst in the Ministry of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence, Sahra has conducted ICT research and metrics analysis, contributed to Trinidad and Tobago’s National Digital Transformation Strategy, and supported national submissions to international assessments such as the UN E-Government Survey and the World Bank’s GovTech Maturity Index. These experiences have strengthened her appreciation for the importance of reliable data in shaping policy and improving public-sector decision-making. Sahra is eager to develop her data science skills through TT Lab and apply them to inform better policies in the digital sphere and beyond. In her spare time, Sahra enjoys travelling, cooking and focusing on her fitness.

Tyler Peters is a final-year student at The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine campus, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, with a strong interest in data science and artificial intelligence. He is particularly drawn to the use of predictive analytics and machine learning to uncover patterns, generate insights, and support data-driven decision-making. Through academic projects and independent learning experiences, Tyler has developed skills in programming, analytical thinking, and problem-solving while gaining experience working with real-world datasets. He is eager to continue expanding his knowledge through research opportunities and collaborative initiatives that address meaningful challenges within the Caribbean context. Outside of his academic pursuits, Tyler enjoys keeping up with emerging trends in technology, video gaming & following developments in artificial intelligence, and exploring new applications of data science across different industries.

Brandon Brown is a data-driven financial analyst specializing in portfolio management and macroeconomic analysis. He holds a Master’s degree in Financial Economics and is currently completing a Master’s degree in Data Science. His interests lie at the intersection of machine learning, finance, and economic policy, particularly in applying data-driven methods to improve decision making and solving real world problems. He looks forward to contributing to and learning from the TTLab’s community.

Adanna Jobe is a Master’s student in Data Science at The University of the West Indies and currently serves as a Senior Business Analyst with experience in strategic planning, process improvement, and technology-driven transformation initiatives. Her interests include data analytics, machine learning, optimization, and using data to support informed decision-making in both business and sports environments. Through her academic and professional experience, she has developed skills in statistical modelling, data visualization, and analytical problem-solving using tools such as R, SQL, and Power BI. She also has knowledge of Lean Six Sigma methodologies, holds a Yellow Belt certification, and is currently pursuing her Green Belt. Adanna is passionate about sharing knowledge and helping others grow, whether through her professional work or involvement in sports. Outside of academics and career development, she is actively involved in the sporting community as a netball umpire and enjoys opportunities that combine leadership, teamwork, and continuous learning.

Tiané Warner is a monitoring and evaluation professional and emerging data science researcher with a background in computing, graphic design, and vocational education systems. She is currently pursuing an MSc in Data Science at the University of the West Indies, where her work focuses on applying statistical and analytical methods to real-world policy and workforce challenges. Professionally, Tiané serves as a Programme Monitoring and Evaluation Officer at Trinidad and Tobago’s National Training Agency, where she conducts quality assurance audits, evaluates training delivery, and supports evidence-based improvements in Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) programmes. Her work sits at the intersection of education, workforce development, and data-driven decision-making. Her research interests include labour market analytics, vocational education systems, and the use of data to strengthen programme evaluation and policy planning.

Vinai is a graduate student with a growing research interest at the intersection of data analytics, risk modelling, and financial decision-making. He holds a BSc in Actuarial Science (Hons) and is currently pursuing an MSc in Data Science at The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine. He has practical experience in financial data analysis through a graduate internship at the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), where he supported investment analysis for staff retirement plan portfolios. His work involved quantitative analysis, sensitivity testing, and the development of asset-liability monitoring tools to support pension risk oversight and investment strategy evaluation. Outside of his academic and professional interests, Vinai values continuous learning and enjoys reading, staying informed on developments in finance and technology, and maintaining an active lifestyle through running and hiking. He values balance and reflection and enjoys conversations that challenge perspectives and spark new ideas.

My name is Shahlaa Marchand, and I recently graduated with a BSc in Actuarial Science (Special) from The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine. I am interested in exploring research in finance and risk-related fields, with a focus on how data-driven analysis can support effective decision-making in real-world situations. I am continuing to develop my skills and interests through research and practical learning. Outside of my academic work, I enjoy baking and watching movies.

Ajay Sieunarine is completing his MSc in Data Science at the University of the West Indies, with research focused on Large Language Models, AI agents, and Retrieval-Augmented Generation systems. He holds a BSc in Computer Science (Special) with Honors from UWI and is a Google Cloud Platform Certified Professional Architect with multiple NVIDIA Deep Learning Institute certifications in CUDA Python, Accelerated Data Science, and RAG systems. As a Senior Software Developer with over four years of industry experience, Ajay has developed systems for enterprise clients and government partnerships, specializing in modern full-stack architectures using NextJS, TypeScript, and cloud-based platforms. His technical expertise spans intelligent data processing pipelines and scalable web applications. His research interests include building practical intelligent systems for real-world Caribbean applications, with a focus on leveraging emerging AI technologies to address regional challenges through data-driven solutions and exploring the intersection of natural language processing with domain-specific problem solving.

My name is Ishika Gopie. I graduated in 2022 with a BSc. in Computer Science (Special) from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, and I am currently pursuing my MSc. in Data Science. My research focuses on predicting software development effort from requirement complexity, and I am also interested in prompt engineering and its applications in AI-driven productivity. I have been working as a full-stack software developer for over three years, where I design, build, and maintain applications across multiple layers of the technology stack. Coding is both my profession and my passion, and outside of work I enjoy reading and exploring new ideas in technology and data science.

Patrick attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) where he obtained five degrees including a PhD in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. He has worked at Bose Corporation, Bell Laboratories, AT&T Laboratories, Ericsson and Huawei. He has published extensively with over 200 refereed journal and conference publications. He holds 41 granted patents in the areas of telecommunications and wireless technologies. He was nominated for the Ericsson Inventor of the Year award in 2004, was the Huawei US Wireless Research Employee of the year for 2007, is a 2015 Anthony Sabga Caribbean Laureate for Science and Technology is a National Geographic Explorer and is a recipient of the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (ORTT) award for 2024. Patrick is presently the administrative and technical contact for the TT top level domain, CEO of the TTNIC and a Professor Emeritus of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at the University of the West Indies. His present areas of research include Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Operations Research and Wireless Communications.