About
Machine Learning Engineer with deep expertise in designing scalable ML systems, time series forecasting, and anomaly detection. Currently completing my Ph.D. in Computer Science at the University of Zurich (Magna Cum Laude, graduating August 2025), where I've specialized in applying deep learning and information-theoretic approaches to real-world challenges in predictive maintenance, process optimization, and industrial automation.
My research focuses on quantifying and pushing the theoretical limits of time series predictability, developing novel frameworks that bridge the gap between theoretical bounds and practical forecasting systems. I've deployed production-grade ML solutions that have reduced industrial downtime by 23% and improved forecasting accuracy by 15% on engineering datasets.
PhD Research Focus
My doctoral work centers on time series predictability analysis and forecasting systems, combining theoretical information theory with practical deep learning implementations. I've developed novel methods to quantify the upper bounds of what can be predicted in time series data, enabling more informed model selection and realistic performance expectations in industrial applications.
Beyond research, I bring extensive experience in database systems, having served as Teaching Assistant for Database Systems at the University of Zurich for three years. This combination of time series expertise and database systems knowledge positions me uniquely for roles in data engineering and AI engineering, where understanding both data infrastructure and advanced ML techniques is crucial.
Technical Expertise
Machine Learning & AI
- Deep Learning: Transformers, RNNs, LSTMs
- Time Series Forecasting
- Anomaly Detection Systems
- Bayesian Models & Optimization
- Information Theory Applications
Frameworks & Tools
- PyTorch, TensorFlow, Keras
- Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn
- Statsmodels, SciPy
- ONNX Model Deployment
- MLflow Experiment Tracking
Database Systems
- Advanced SQL (Expert Level)
- Database Design & Optimization
- Time Series Databases
- Query Performance Tuning
- Data Modeling & ETL Pipelines
Programming Languages
- Python (Expert)
- SQL (Advanced)
- C, MATLAB, R
- Java (Intermediate)
Infrastructure & DevOps
- High-Performance Computing (CUDA)
- Multi-GPU Training & HPC Clusters
- Docker Containerization
- AWS Cloud Services
- Git Version Control
Languages
- English (Fluent)
- Italian (Fluent)
- German (Basic)
- French (Basic)
PhD Research & Projects
Time Series Forecasting Platform
2024Developed a comprehensive ML platform to quantify and benchmark the predictability limits of univariate time series data. The system implements state-of-the-art deep learning architectures including Transformers, N-BEATS, and N-HiTS, providing a rigorous framework for evaluating forecasting model performance against theoretical bounds.
The platform enables researchers and practitioners to understand what can realistically be predicted from their time series data before investing in complex model development. By establishing information-theoretic upper bounds, organizations can make informed decisions about model selection and resource allocation.
Multi-Horizon Forecasting System
2025Designed and implemented an end-to-end framework for multi-step time series forecasting that combines deep learning architectures with statistical models. The system addresses the challenging problem of predicting multiple future time steps simultaneously, which is critical for applications like energy demand forecasting, inventory management, and resource planning.
The framework incorporates novel techniques for quantifying prediction uncertainty at different forecast horizons, enabling users to understand confidence levels for short-term versus long-term predictions. This multi-horizon approach provides actionable insights for decision-makers operating under different time constraints.
Efficient Subsequence Matching Tool
2025Engineered high-performance algorithms for fast subsequence matching in large-scale time series data, enabling real-time pattern detection and anomaly identification in industrial systems. The tool implements optimized data structures and approximation techniques to achieve sub-linear search complexity for pattern matching queries.
This system is particularly valuable for continuous monitoring applications where identifying recurring patterns or detecting anomalies must happen in real-time. The algorithms are designed to handle high-frequency data streams common in IoT sensor networks and industrial control systems.
Predictive Maintenance for Industrial Printers
2019-2020Collaborated with Durst Phototechnik AG to develop and deploy ML-based predictive maintenance solutions for industrial printing systems. The project involved building end-to-end data pipelines from sensor data collection to model deployment in production environments.
Developed deep learning models (LSTM-based architectures) for anomaly detection in multivariate time series sensor data streams. The system monitors multiple sensor readings simultaneously (temperature, pressure, vibration, ink flow) to detect early warning signs of equipment failure, enabling proactive maintenance scheduling.
Worked closely with domain experts and engineers to translate research prototypes into production-ready solutions, including model optimization for edge deployment and integration with existing monitoring systems.
Teaching & Mentorship
Teaching Assistant, Database Systems - University of Zurich (2021-2024)
- Led tutorials and lab sessions for 50+ students on database design, SQL optimization, and transaction management
- Designed comprehensive assignments covering relational algebra, query optimization, and distributed databases
- Supervised 3 M.Sc. theses on ML for sequential data analysis and optimization
- Supervised 2 B.Sc. theses on information-theoretic approaches for forecasting and anomaly detection
Publications
Contact
mjamal@ifi.uzh.ch
Zurich, Switzerland
Open to Opportunities
I'm actively seeking roles in Data Engineering, AI/ML Engineering, and Applied Research where I can leverage my expertise in time series analysis, database systems, and scalable ML infrastructure. Particularly interested in positions that combine technical depth with real-world impact in domains like fintech, industrial IoT, energy systems, or healthcare.