About
Hi, I’m Billy
I build machine learning models for hard, real-world problems where uncertainty, time, and imperfect data matter. My work spans survival analysis, reinforcement learning, and agentic systems, with a particular interest in making model outputs interpretable and usable, not just accurate.
I recently completed my M.S. in Data Science and Analytics at Georgetown University, where I continue to collaborate on research at the Massive Data Institute with my advisor. Before Georgetown, I studied at Villanova University, double majoring in Economics and Business Analytics. As part of Villanova’s Honors Program, I studied abroad at the University of Cambridge, where I focused on international political economy and economic theory. That experience first made me realize how much data reveals about complex global systems.
Work
My research centers on uncertainty quantification and survival analysis. My flagship project is FrailNet, a variational frailty model built on top of a Cox proportional hazards neural network, applied to interstate conflict prediction using dyadic time-series data. It is currently being submitted for publication.
Other work includes a reinforcement learning project for autonomous lunar rover navigation, developed in collaboration with NASA-affiliated researchers and presented at StatConnect 2025.
On the applied side, I have built production projects ranging from an LLM-powered code analysis agent to a React/Next.js movie dashboard to a computer vision pipeline that mapped 500 individually addressable LEDs in 3D space.
Top Shelf Designs
During undergrad, my sisters and I co-founded Top Shelf Designs – a company that designs and builds custom shelving for college dorms. It started as a practical solution to a problem we knew firsthand, and turned into a real business.
Outside of Work
Music: I’ve played piano since I was a kid and taught myself guitar during COVID. Lately, I’ve been building an interactive page on sound, waves, and music to better understand what music actually is at a physical level. Find that page here
Sports: I’m an avid Yankees, Giants, and Villanova basketball fan. Recently, I’ve been following the New York Knicks more closely, especially with Brunson, Hart, and Bridges (all former Villanova Wildcats) on the team.
Travel: I love traveling, with my favorite destination being Italy (food, wine, history), but a recent trip to San Francisco and Napa Valley made a strong case for California.
Gaming: I play a mix of single-player and multiplayer games across console and PC. Lately, I’ve been playing a lot of Valorant, where I’m currently ranked Diamond 3.
Reading: I’ve been reading more this year and maintain a running list of recent books, along with brief summaries and quick takes.Browse here.
DC – Always looking for new spots around the city. Recommendations welcome.
Roxie
No story of mine would be complete without mentioning Roxie, our family dog for years and one of the best things about coming home.
