Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Current Position
Timeline
Generic

Yang Cai

Applied Scientist at Uber
San Francisco Bay Area

Summary

Machine Learning and Deep Learning expertise including XGBoost, Transformer models, and MLP. Skilled in Fraud Detection, specializing in Fake Account Identification and implementing Fraud Prevention Strategies. Proficient in ETL & Data Processing, including Data Wrangling, Pipeline Creation, and Feature Engineering. Proficient in Python, SQL, Java, Pytorch, and Keras. Demonstrated success collaborating with Data Science (DS), Engineering Teams, and Product teams to drive impactful results.

Overview

10
10
years of professional experience
12
12
years of post-secondary education

Work History

Applied Scientist

Uber
01.2021 - Current
  • Designed, deployed, and optimized fraud detection models using advanced machine learning techniques (e.g., Transformer models, MLP, ensemble methods, LSH) to identify fake accounts, resulting in improved fraud detection and significant financial loss reduction from fraudulent signups.
  • Built and maintained ETL pipelines for processing large datasets, ensuring smooth data flow and seamless integration for both real-time and batch model predictions, contributing to model scalability and efficiency.
  • Led cross-functional collaborations with Data Science, Engineering, Product teams, and CommOps to design and implement end-to-end ML solutions for fraud prevention at key user checkpoints, proactively mitigating fraud risks early in the user journey.

Data Scientist

Uber
12.2016 - 12.2020
  • Developed and deployed device-level machine learning models for detecting spoofed devices, significantly enhancing fraud detection capabilities.
  • Defined and implemented risk strategy performance metrics and established data pipelines using Spark, Presto, and Hive to effectively monitor and assess ML model performance and risk strategy outcomes.
  • Led collaboration with CommOps to create and execute a manual review SOP, streamlining the process to monitor the effectiveness of ML models and risk strategies.
  • Designed user bypass and segmented strategies to reduce user friction while optimizing fraud detection.
  • Developed a user segmentation strategy for the ACH product, identifying the target customer base and creating an effective incentive strategy to drive adoption.
  • Defined eligibility criteria and designed the rollout strategy for the DC-ACH MVP, ensuring successful product deployment and performance optimization.

Data Analyst

Google Express
01.2015 - 11.2016
  • Develop core strategic metrics for each functional area of Google Express (GSX) to drive user satisfaction and reduce cost.
  • Lead the effort in workflow design of BigQuery, technical implementation, in close collaboration with GSX leadership.
  • Stimulate collaboration with engineers to build pipeline to collect data for analysis and reporting.
  • Implement Dashboards to bring visibility to strategic operation metrics regarding efficiency and customer experience.

Education

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) - Chemcal Engineering

Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, GA
01.2009 - 01.2013

Master's Degree - Statistics

Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, GA
01.2009 - 01.2013

Bachelor's degree - Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering

Beijing University of Chemical Technology
01.2003 - 01.2007

Skills

  • Proficient in Python

  • Advanced deep learning

  • Machine learning expertise

  • Experienced with PyTorch

  • Experience with Keras library

Current Position

Applied Scientist at Uber

Timeline

Applied Scientist

Uber
01.2021 - Current

Data Scientist

Uber
12.2016 - 12.2020

Data Analyst

Google Express
01.2015 - 11.2016

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) - Chemcal Engineering

Georgia Institute of Technology
01.2009 - 01.2013

Master's Degree - Statistics

Georgia Institute of Technology
01.2009 - 01.2013

Bachelor's degree - Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering

Beijing University of Chemical Technology
01.2003 - 01.2007
Yang CaiApplied Scientist at Uber