Even after enjoying her first computer science course, Margaret Lawson wasn’t convinced she’d have a place in the field. But today she works on cloud storage for Google after completing her Ph.D. at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, where she was supported by a Department of Energy Computational Science Graduate Fellowship (DOE CSGF). This conversation was recorded at the Supercomputing meeting (SC22) in Dallas in November 2022, where Margaret co-led a&nbsp;  on Ethics in High Performance Computing. We talked about that session, her pursuit of challenging computer science problems and progress for women in computing. You’ll meet: Margaret Lawson is a software engineer based in Google’s Kirkland, Washington, office. There she primarily works on cloud storage platforms. &nbsp;

Season 3, Episode 2 – Margaret Lawson: Finding Her Place

Welcome to AI with Shaily! 🎙️ Shailendra Kumar, also known as Shaily, takes you on an exciting journey through the latest breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, especially where it intersects with biology and medicine. Today’s episode dives deep into the fascinating world of RNA splicing and how machine learning is revolutionizing this crucial biological process. 🧬✨

RNA splicing is nature’s way of editing genetic information inside our cells—deciding which parts of RNA to keep and which to cut out, much like a molecular editor. This process is vital because it influences how genes express themselves and plays a key role in understanding diseases and developing targeted therapies. Getting RNA splicing predictions right is like having the blueprint for personalized medicine! 🧩🔬

Shaily highlights how researchers are now using advanced 1D convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to detect splice sites in RNA sequences. These models are specially designed to handle the noisy, complex data that comes from real-world RNA sequencing—imagine trying to catch whispered secrets in a noisy crowd! These CNNs have become better listeners, improving accuracy even across different species. 🎧🧠

Taking it a step further, Shaily introduces futuristic generative AI models like TrASPr+BOS, which use multi-transformer architectures. These models don’t just predict RNA splicing—they actually design RNA sequences tailored for specific tissues. It’s like giving scientists a colorful palette to paint precise RNA behaviors, opening doors to groundbreaking personalized treatments. 🎨🤖💉

One of the most inspiring parts of this AI evolution is the rise of interpretable machine learning. Unlike traditional “black box” models that just give answers, these interpretable tools explain *why* a certain RNA sequence is spliced in a particular way. They provide intuitive visualizations that act like a GPS, guiding researchers through the complex landscape of RNA splicing with clarity and confidence. 🗺️🔍💡

Shaily shares a personal reflection on his early AI journey, where he often struggled with the frustration of black box models. Seeing how interpretability is now making AI more transparent and trustworthy is a game changer—transforming AI from a mysterious magic trick into a reliable partner in science and medicine. 🤝✨

He also sparks curiosity by asking why imaging data hasn’t yet taken center stage in RNA splicing prediction. Could integrating cellular imaging with sequence data reveal even deeper insights? This open question invites the community to think creatively and explore new frontiers. 🧫📸❓

For those eager to dive into RNA splicing and AI, Shaily offers a valuable tip: prioritize models that provide interpretable outputs. These not only boost confidence in predictions but also unlock innovative possibilities in RNA design and therapeutic development. Transparency isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential in life sciences. 🔑🧬💡

Quoting the legendary Alan Turing, Shaily reminds us that while we can only see a short distance ahead, there’s plenty of work to be done. Machine learning is lighting the path forward in RNA splicing—one splice at a time. 🌟🚀

Don’t miss out on more insightful AI stories with Shailendra Kumar! Follow him on YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Medium to stay updated and join the conversation. Drop your thoughts and questions in the comments because AI is a journey we’re all on together. 🤗💬

Until next time, keep questioning, keep learning, and keep innovating. This is AI with Shaily, signing off! 👋🤖📚

AI with Shaily: How Machine Learning is Revolutionizing RNA Splicing Prediction and Design

Unlock the secrets of data mastery with Shailendra, a 27-year veteran in AI, ML, and Data Science, driving AU$ 6 Billion in transformative value. As the author of 'Making Money out of Data,' their strategies redefine digital success. With expertise honed at IBM and Accenture, they drive innovation and data monetization. Explore how loyalty programs like Flybuys and Everyday Rewards revolutionize business—connect with Shaily today.

New tracks tagged #Interpretability