Dr. Linda Zhao

Biography

Linda Zhao is a Professor in the Department of Statistics and Data Science at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. She obtained her Ph.D. in Mathematics and Statistics from Cornell University. Since joining Wharton in 1994, she has developed a robust research program in statistical machine learning and data-driven decision-making. Her areas of expertise include reinforcement learning, crowdsourcing, and nonparametric Bayesian methods. Throughout her career, Linda has contributed to various high-impact publications on topics like high-dimensional data analysis, network analysis, and statistical inference. She enjoys teaching and has developed several courses around modern data mining and statistical analysis. Linda is an influential figure in her field, recognized for her innovative approaches to statistical challenges in education and decision-making contexts. In addition to her academic roles, Linda has been actively involved in mentoring PhD students and participating in conferences that bridge academia and industry. Her research brings together theoretical developments and practical applications, which has garnered her numerous awards, including the Wharton MBA Teaching Excellence Award and recognition as a Fellow of the Institute of Mathematical Statistics.

Research Interests

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