Dr. Benno Käch

Data Scientist | Machine Learning Engineer
PhD in High-Energy Particle Physics

Experience

DESY: Research Scientist

During my PhD in high-energy physics at DESY, my work focused on the following:

  • Generative Modeling: Developed expertise in generative models, including VAEs, GANs, and both discrete and continuous normalizing flows.
  • Data Analysis at Scale: Analyzed petabytes of physics data generated at CERN, utilizing high-performance computing (HPC) systems for efficient data processing and model training.
  • Research and Development: Supervised various studies, exploring the complexities and applications of different generative modeling approaches.
  • High-Performance Computing: Leveraged HPC environments to handle and process large datasets, ensuring efficient and scalable computational workflows.
  • Statistical Analysis: Applied advanced statistical methods to interpret and analyze experimental data, a crucial skill for success in high-energy physics research.
  • Soft Skills Enhancement: Improved communication and presentation skills by delivering regular presentations at conferences and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

ETH Zurich: Research Assistant in Manufacturing

As a research assistant at ETH Zurich, I applied machine learning techniques to enhance electric discharge machining (EDM) manufacturing processes. This role leveraged my physics background and provided practical insights into industrial applications. While the work significantly improved my hardware skills, it also made me realize that my true interest lies in the direction of software development and machine learning applications. This realization influenced my decision to pursue a doctorate in physics, focusing more on software-driven solutions and deep learning.

Simpego: Working Student/Data Analyst

At Simpego, I started as a working student and quickly took on more responsibility, contributing significantly to the company's operations. Key projects included:

  • Optimizing GBM Pricing Model in R: Analyzed and fine-tuned a Gradient Boosting Machine (GBM) model to improve pricing strategy.
  • In-House Web Scraping with Python: Replaced outsourced data mining with a custom web scraping solution using Beautiful Soup, reducing costs and improving data quality.
  • Automating Processes with Python and Selenium: Automated backend tasks using Python; employed Selenium for tasks requiring browser automation.
  • Data Aggregation in AWS Backend: Developed data aggregation processes in AWS using Scala and Python, optimizing data handling and operations.

This role enhanced my technical skills and provided valuable insights into the fast-paced environment of a startup.

Strength

Adaptable: Quick to adapt to new environments and challenges, as demonstrated by my transition from academia to a dynamic startup and back to academia for my PhD. Now, I’m eager to return to industry, where I can continue to tackle exciting and challenging problems!

Collaborative: Skilled in working within teams, contributing to success through clear communication and a commitment to shared goals.

Progress-Oriented: Demonstrated ability to work independently and efficiently, consistently striving for progress and innovation, even in challenging environments with not clearly defined goals.

Projects

Education

  • Ph.D. in Particle Physics - University of Hamburg, 2021–2024
  • M.Sc. in Physics - ETH Zurich, 2019–2020
  • B.Sc. in Physics - ETH Zurich, 2015–2018

Selected Scientific Record

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