Reseachers

Jarod Esareesingh is a master’s student in Data Science with a strong foundation in computer science and software development. He earned a B.Sc. in Computer Science with First Class Honors from The University of the West Indies and currently works full time as a Web Developer at Avasant, where he previously completed an internship. His experience spans full-stack web development, database systems, API integration, and data-focused programming, with practical skills in Python, JavaScript frameworks, Node.js, PHP, SQL, NoSQL databases, Docker, Git, and cloud-native experimentation. Through his graduate studies, Jarod continues to develop his expertise in applying computational and analytical methods to real-world problems. His work reflects an interest in building reliable, scalable, and data-informed systems that connect technical implementation with meaningful insight.

Vinayak Maharaj holds a BSc in Computer Science and Statistics from the University of Toronto (2025), with a minor in Mathematics. During his studies, a presentation on the Hot Hand Fallacy in his Bayesian Statistics course which sparked a deep interest in sports analytics. He has worked as a Software Engineer at Maritime Financial Group, building an anomaly detection pipeline leveraging Isolation Forest and deep learning on network security data, and at the Intelligent Adaptive Interventions Lab, where he developed React dashboards to support researchers in visualizing complex study data. His broader project work spans AI-powered SaaS products, LLM-integrated tooling, and retrieval-augmented generation systems. Outside of coding, he enjoys reading and watching F1 or football.

Rafael is a second-year undergraduate student at The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine campus, pursuing a Bsc. in Computer Science and Management (Special). His passion for problem-solving and technology naturally led him to data analytics and business intelligence, where he has been actively expanding his knowledge beyond the classroom. He has a strong interest in transforming complex data into practical insights for Caribbean enterprises and institutions. His diligent efforts are driven by a solid foundation in analytical thinking and an eye for detail. Through academic and practical experiences, including prior work as a Data Analyst Intern developing automation tools and dashboards, he has strengthened his technical skills and gained experience working with real-world data.He is eager to learn from experienced professionals and apply his skills to meaningful, real-world problems. In his free time, Rafael enjoys playing chess and exploring new ideas at the intersection of technology and business.

Devon is a Full-Stack Software Developer and Teaching Assistant at the University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine. With expertise spanning modern backend and frontend frameworks—including Python/FastAPI, GO, TypeScript, and React—he builds scalable, production-grade systems across domains including healthcare, education, and climate technology. A core developer on AI4SIDS, a flood risk monitoring and prediction platform built for Small Island Developing States in the Caribbean, Devon contributes to a team working at the intersection of software engineering and regional climate resilience—developing systems that address disaster preparedness and flood risk for vulnerable Caribbean communities. Lead author of an upcoming book chapter examining AI use cases across behavioral, agentic, and community outcome dimensions for flood risk management in SIDS, Devon bridges cutting-edge research with real-world implementation in one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable regions. Outside of his professional life, Devon is a competitive athlete—a committed gym-goer and an active member of the UWI Track & Field team, competing in shot put.

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.

Daria Hypolite is a final-year Computer Science undergraduate student at UWI STA. Her passion for statistics and coding naturally led her to data science and data analytics, where she has been actively expanding her knowledge beyond the classroom. She is eager to learn from experienced professionals and apply her skills to real-world problems. In her free time, she enjoys gaming and exploring content online.

Denelle is a final-year student at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine campus, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (Special), with aspirations of obtaining a Master’s degree in Data Science. She has a strong interest in data analytics and data science, driven by a solid mathematical foundation, an eye for detail, and an affinity for transforming complex data into useful insights for real-world problems. Through academic and practical experiences, she has strengthened these problem-solving skills and gained experience working with real-world data. Outside of her academic pursuits, Denelle enjoys nail art and watching reality television.

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.

I am an Emergency Medicine Specialist passionate about the intersection of patient care and predictive analytics. My journey into Data Science is driven by a desire to use data to improve patient outcomes. I utilize Python, R, and Machine Learning to deconstruct healthcare operations, seeking data-driven ways to improve efficiency and patient experience. I believe that the future of medicine lies in the ability to interpret vast amounts of health data to make smarter, faster decisions. My research aims to turn hospital data into life-saving improvements. When I step away from the ER and the monitor, I love exploring the outdoors, specifically gardening, hiking and paddleboarding.

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.

Ricarda holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics with First Class Honours and is pursuing a Master of Science in Data Science. She works in the higher education sector, where early experience in institutional research and planning exposed her to data analysis and the use of data-driven insights to support evidence-based decision-making. This foundation motivated her to strengthen her analytical skill set through professional certifications, including Google Data Analytics, Google Advanced Data Analytics, and Business Analytics, Data Science and Decision-Making from the Arthur Lok Jack Global School of Business. She later advanced into the role of Research and Data Analyst, applying statistical and analytical methods to support institutional research, planning, and performance monitoring. She is passionate about using data to inform policy, improve meaningful outcomes, and contribute to the development of data-driven decision-making in Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean region. Outside work, she enjoys teaching, travelling, and strength training.

Jaheem Edwards possesses a BSc in Computer Science from the UWI. He is a Data Scientist in leading companies implementing AI systems. He completed various certificates in Data Science, Machine and Deep Learning assisting in projects namely, News Analytics Dashboard, Automated Data Warehouse and Customer Churn Prediction. He brings expertise in collaborating with cross-functional teams to discover pain points and solve problems with data science principles or technical solutions. Communication, strategic thinking, conceptualization and guiding stakeholder decisions through data are skills he applies, providing a diverse and holistic approach. Beyond his career, he is an anime fan who passionately practices jiu-jitsu and chess. He is fond of researching innovative technologies as he is deeply curious about AI transformations in industries, motivated by this, he brings an analytical perspective and visionary mindset to challenges. Jaheem’s goal is to push boundaries of data science, drive innovation and thrive as a technology leader.

Mandy Mohan works at the Division of Educational Research and Evaluation at the Ministry of Education, Trinidad and Tobago. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics and is currently pursuing a Master of Science degree in Data Science. Her work focuses on the collection, analysis, and reporting of educational data to support evidence-based policy and decision-making. Mandy is actively involved in national projects related to student and school level achievement such as school climate initiatives, and value-added analyses, which tracks students’ progress throughout the education system. She is keen on applying data-driven approaches to real-world policy and research challenges, particularly within the Caribbean education context. Outside of her academic and professional interests, she enjoys spending time with family and reading.

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.

Chelsea Porter earned her Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from the UWI Mona and is currently doing her Master’s in Data Science at the UWI St. Augustine campus, whilst teaching CSEC Mathematics. She chose Data Science because of her interest in how data can be used as a predictive tool, making it useful for decision making. Currently, Chelsea has over three years of hands-on experience specializing in Machine Learning, Deep Learning, and Data Analysis. Her technical proficiency encompasses programming languages such as Python, R, and Julia, alongside database management with SQL, data visualization with Power BI, and back-end development. Her hobbies include cooking, jogging, hiking, gardening (any sort of engagement with nature) and working with children and individuals with special needs.

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.

Kavita Jattansingh is a multidisciplinary researcher with expertise in geoscience, GIS, and data-driven risk analysis. She holds a B.Sc. in Petroleum Geoscience from The University of the West Indies and an M.Sc. in Geographic Information Science from University College London and is pursuing an MSc. in Data Science at The University of the West Indies. Currently a Principal Consultant at Wipro, she brings industry experience in energy and digital transformation to her research. Her current focus at TTLAB centers on disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation finance, with an emphasis on leveraging spatial data and predictive models to inform resilient development in the Caribbean. She is also a volunteer with Trinidad and Tobago’s Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM), where she supports community engagement and hazard preparedness initiatives. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking and nature exploration. Her work is driven by a passion for applying science and technology to build safer, more sustainable communities.

Jade Noreiga is a data science graduate student with a background in Actuarial Science and a drive to turn complex data into simple, impactful insights. Skilled in Python, R, Tableau, and DataRobot, she applies statistical analysis and visualization to real-world challenges — from supporting digital learning in classrooms to improving team performance on the field. With a unique blend of technical expertise and human-centered thinking, Jade is passionate about using data to drive smarter decisions and meaningful change.

Ruthven attended the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine campus and graduated in 2024 with first class honours. Ruthven pursued a double major in Mathematics and Physics. Ruthven received accolades for topping years one, two and three in Mathematics at the University of the West Indies. Ruthven is currently pursuing a Masters in Data Science and is on course to complete in 2026. While pursuing his Masters, Ruthven has obtained various Microsoft certifications such as Power Platform Fundamentals and Power BI Analyst. Apart from his studies, Ruthven enjoys middle and long distance running.

Aaliyah graduated from The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine campus in 2023 with a BSc. in Physics (major) and Mathematics (major). Through her academic journey, she has acquired a versatile set of technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills. In 2024, Aaliyah was a research intern at the CENCA-Bridge Remote REU, where she learnt and applied data analysis using Python to astrophysical research. This led to her strong interest in using data science to uncover patterns, solve real-world problems, and contribute to evidence-based decision-making. Her current goal is to pursue data science at a postgraduate level. Outside of research and academics, Aaliyah enjoys reading and painting.

Riyaad Mohammed is a graduate student currently pursuing a Master’s in Data Science at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine. He also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the same institution. With experience in backend development, database systems, and IT operations within the financial technology sector, Riyaad has contributed to systems automation, alert mechanisms, and infrastructure upgrades. His academic and professional interests include machine learning, GPU acceleration, and automation, with project work in facial and gesture recognition using C++ and CUDA. He is skilled in Python, Java, SQL, and various cloud and integration technologies. Beyond his technical pursuits, Riyaad enjoys reading, fishing, and exploring solar technology as a sustainable energy solution. He looks forward to contributing to impactful research, combining his practical experience with his passion for innovation.

Abdullah Ali is a Data Governance Analyst at a leading American healthcare organization and a Data Science Researcher at TT Lab, where he spearheaded the development of the agentic LLM and RAG components of AI4SIDS — a framework for climate resilience in Small Island Developing States. He holds a BSc in Computer Science from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, and is currently pursuing an MSc in Analytics at the Georgia Institute of Technology. His work has spanned enterprise data governance in regulated healthcare environments, AI research, and applied machine learning for policy and climate challenges. Abdullah is a PCI DSS Internal Security Assessor, an NVIDIA-certified RAG developer, and has presented on data governance for the Caribbean at the 21st Caribbean Internet Governance Forum. He is the lead author of a forthcoming IEEE CARIBCON 2026 paper proposing agentic RAG architectures for accelerating sustainable development in SIDS.

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.