About_Sam_GU

—- “Empower organizations through AI, Data Science, and Intelligent Automation.”

—- “Inspire artificial intelligence enthusiasts and leaders through education and mentorship.”

Hi! I am GU Zhan (Sam), currently severing senior lecturer role in applied artificial intelligence, division of information technology & operations management, Nanyang Business School, Nanyang Technological University (NTU Singapore).

Where else am I active:

NTU LinkedIn GitHub YouTube

1. My Domains of Expertise:

With an intrinsic passion for artificial intelligence, I work with organizations and academic institutions to advance AI technologies and inspire the next generation of leaders. My focus is on leveraging data science, machine learning, intelligent automation and cloud computing to solve problems.

“Cultivating problem-solving through pedagogy-driven learning, fostering innovation and critical thinking within higher education institutions.” well reflects my teaching philosophy.

Areas where my expertise can be leveraged to provide you values:

Artificial Intelligence Assistive Technology Banking and Financial Services Data Science Data Governance Deep Learning Edge Devices and Systems Generative AI Genetic Algorithms Hadoop/Spark Eco-Systems Intelligent Process Automation Large Language Models (LLM) Large Multi-modal Models (LMM) Machine Learning Machine Reasoning Predictive Modeling Statistical Analysis Virtual Agents

2. Invited Talks

Topics and durations are customizable for your needs.

Talk Title Date Synopsis Organization Snapshots
AI in Education - Empowering the Future Feb 2025 This interactive half-day workshop is designed to introduce faculty and researchers in education, special education, psychology, child development, and other related fields to the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Participants will explore foundational AI concepts, discuss real-world applications, identify key challenges in their domains, and brainstorm innovative AI-driven solutions. The session aims to equip participants with actionable strategies, practical tools, and frameworks to integrate AI into their academic and research practices effectively. National Institute of Education (NIE) AI in Education - Empowering the Future
AI Essences, Opportunities and Latest Advancements Dec 2024 This session explores AI’s transformative impact on industries, emphasizing advancements in intelligent manufacturing, robotics, and automated systems. Insights from global trends and China’s achievements will guide discussions on leveraging AI for innovation and integration across research, education, and industry. Shanghai University AI Essences, Opportunities and Latest Advancements
Harnessing Chinese AI Technologies [Beijing] Nov 2024 This session delved into China’s advancements in AI, showcasing innovations in facial recognition, computer vision, and robotics that emulate human cognitive abilities. Attendees discovered global opportunities these technologies present, supported by insights from leading AI firms and the 2024 Technology Trends Outlook report. Nanyang Business School Harnessing Chinese AI Technologies [Beijing]
AI Essences and Opportunities [EMBA] Sep 2024 This session delved into the transformative power of AI, examining how machine intelligence mirrors human cognition. The talk highlighted growth opportunities for Chinese AI enterprises abroad, especially in computer vision and language comprehension, shaping the future of business applications. Nanyang Business School AI Essences and Opportunities [EMBA]
Integrating AI into Higher Learning [Ghana Ministry of Education and Universities] Jun 2024 This session provided Ghanaian educational delegates with valuable insights into AI’s transformative role in higher education, highlighting global guidelines and best practices from top universities. Delegates explored strategies for ethical, equitable, and impactful AI adoption to foster inclusive academic growth. PSB Academy Integrating AI into Higher Learning [Ghana Ministry of Education and Universities]
Generative AI for Education Apr 2024 This session explored how global universities are shaping best practices for Generative AI in education, offering insights into policies from leading institutions. Attendees gained practical tools to prevent AI-related plagiarism and heard a firsthand account of the speaker’s journey in integrating GenAI into educational frameworks. Nanyang Business School Generative AI for Education
Emerging Frontiers AI Innovations Reshaping Business Landscape Jan 2024 This session explored cutting-edge AI innovations that are transforming the business landscape, highlighting the potential of generative AI to drive new growth opportunities. Attendees gained insights into prompt engineering, large multimodal models, and the economic impact of AI advancements on modern enterprises. Nanyang Business School Emerging Frontiers AI Innovations Reshaping Business Landscape
A Comparison of AI Opportunities between the West and China [AI Alumni Association Inauguration] Dec 2023 This session delved into the evolving landscape of Artificial Intelligence, comparing opportunities and challenges between the West and China. Attendees gained insights into the future of AI, frontier technologies, and the global business environment shaping AI’s growth and intellectual property strategies. Shanghai University A Comparison of AI Opportunities between the West and China [AI Alumni Association Inauguration]
Unlocking the Creative Potential Oct 2023 This session captivated a full-house audience, exploring the transformative world of Generative AI (GAI) during NUS-ISS’s October 2023 open day. Attendees left inspired and equipped with hands-on skills to craft impactful AI prompts, ready to lead their organizations into an AI-driven future. National University of Singapore (NUS) Unlocking the Creative Potential
Unveiling the Power of AI Reasoning Systems, JTC Learning Festival Oct 2023 This session explored how AI reasoning systems can drive organizational innovation by predicting staffing needs and dynamically redeploying resources in real-time. Participants gained hands-on experience integrating AI techniques, from data mining to evolutionary computation, building intelligent systems for industries like healthcare, education, and logistics. Jurong Town Council Unveiling the Power of AI Reasoning Systems, JTC Learning Festival
Generative AI Workshop Oct 2023 This session introduced students to generative AI, guiding them in creating a storytelling video by leveraging AI tools. Through hands-on collaboration, participants explored AI-generated art, music, and narratives, crafting unique multimedia projects that highlighted creativity and innovation. Institute of Technical Education Generative AI Workshop
The Future of Content Creation [Semiconductor Industry] Sep 2023 This session explored the transformative impact of AI on content creation within the semiconductor industry, emphasizing its potential to streamline processes and drive innovation in electronics. Attendees discovered how AI-generated content can enhance efficiency, creativity, and personalization, reshaping how technology and advancements are communicated. Infineon Singapore The Future of Content Creation [Semiconductor Industry]
Get Your IT Masters at Singapore & Asia No1 University [HeadHunt Postgraduate Fair] Sep 2023 This session showcased top IT and data science graduate programs designed to equip professionals with practical skills and cutting-edge knowledge in fields like AI, data analytics, and software engineering. Attendees discovered pathways to advance their careers with Asia’s leading programs that emphasize hands-on experience and industry relevance. National University of Singapore (NUS) Get Your IT Masters at Singapore & Asia No1 University [HeadHunt Postgraduate Fair]
Asia Design-to-Make Skills Competition [Judging Panel] Aug 2023 This session celebrated innovation and inclusivity as students from across Asia’s vocational institutions showcased their creative solutions for empowering a diverse workforce. As one of three judges, I had the honor of evaluating entries focused on sustainable, accessible workplace solutions, all aligned with the theme, “Inclusive Workforce for a Sustainable Economy.” Institute of Technical Education Asia Design-to-Make Skills Competition [Judging Panel]
Assistive Technology Makeathon [Judging Panel] Aug 2022 This session highlighted remarkable creativity and technical skill as students from various vocational institutions designed innovative assistive technologies for individuals with disabilities. Serving on the judging panel, I evaluated inventive solutions aimed at breaking down barriers and fostering greater inclusivity and independence in daily life. Institute of Technical Education Assistive Technology Makeathon [Judging Panel]
An Ensembling Architecture for Forex Trading, Facilitator, Learning Festival Aug 2022 This talk presented an innovative ensembling architecture using machine learning and genetic algorithms to optimize Forex trading, yielding a promising 10% profit under ideal back-testing conditions. The project team, supervised by GU Zhan, highlighted advancements in algorithmic trading and automated financial strategies for enhanced profitability. National University of Singapore (NUS) An Ensembling Architecture for Forex Trading, Facilitator, Learning Festival
Hybrid Teaching Mode across Time Zones Mar 2022 This session shared valuable insights into hybrid teaching practices, showcasing effective strategies to enhance engagement across in-person and remote students. By integrating multiple cameras, microphones, and a dedicated monitor for Zoom interactions, the approach aimed to create an inclusive, interactive learning environment for all participants. National University of Singapore (NUS) Hybrid Teaching Mode across Time Zones
Assistive Technology Makeathon [Judging Panel] Sep 2021 This session showcased inventive assistive technology designs from students across Asia, each aimed at enhancing accessibility for individuals with disabilities. As one of three judges, I evaluated creative solutions focused on breaking down barriers, aligning with the event’s vision of a more inclusive, accessible world through technology. Institute of Technical Education Assistive Technology Makeathon [Judging Panel]
Advances in Business Automation Jan 2021 This talk explored the evolution of business automation, comparing hard and soft automation methods and their implications for modern workplaces. It highlighted emerging job roles in automation and offered practical insights for leveraging AI to tackle real-world business challenges. Government Technology Agency (GovTech) Singapore Advances in Business Automation
Talk Digitalization Academia and Industry on AI Oct 2020 In a talk with 240 Infineon staff, the transition from human to machine intelligence was explored, highlighting Infineon’s AI-driven solutions that enhance energy efficiency, performance, and scalability in sectors like IoT and automotive. Infineon’s responsible AI approach emphasizes global collaboration to drive sustainable innovation across industries. Infineon Singapore Talk Digitalization Academia and Industry on AI
From Human Intelligence to Machine Intelligence, Learning Festival Aug 2020 This session debuted at a live, streaming learning festival, tracing the shift from human to machine intelligence through key cognitive processes like perception, learning, and reasoning. Emphasizing resilience and adaptability during the pandemic, it showcased AI’s role in driving innovation. National University of Singapore (NUS) From Human Intelligence to Machine Intelligence, Learning Festival
Artificial Intelligence for IT & ITES Industry, Singapore e-Government Leadership Centre Jun 2020 This session showcased AI-powered Intelligent Process Automation (IPA) as a transformative tool for the IT and ITES sectors, driving accelerated growth for Bangladesh’s tech startups. Through hands-on examples and cloud-based AI tools, it emphasized how intelligent agents streamline tasks and boost efficiency across various industrial domains. LICT, Bangladesh Computer Council Artificial Intelligence for IT & ITES Industry, Singapore e-Government Leadership Centre

3. Courses and Topics I Teach

Topics and durations are customizable for your needs.

Course Names Synopsis Tags / Topics Adjustable Duration (Hours) Snapshots
AI for Accounting and Finance This course demonstrates how AI can revolutionize accounting and finance by automating decision-making, data management, and analytics. Participants will learn to leverage cloud computing, decentralized apps, and AI tools like machine learning libraries to solve complex financial challenges, making AI-powered solutions accessible for real business use cases. Artificial Intelligence, Finance, Data Science, Machine Learning, Cloud Computing, Predictive Analytics, Web3, Generative AI, Decentralized Applications Lecture: 12 Optional lab: 12 AI for Accounting and Finance
AI for Sustainable Innovation (Ideation phase) This course focuses on how AI and Generative AI can drive sustainability efforts in business and technology. Learners will explore how AI can optimize energy efficiency, reduce waste, and support sustainable agriculture, all while balancing environmental data for decision-making that leads to practical green business practices across industries. Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, Sustainability, Climate Monitoring, Green Technology, Energy Efficiency, Resource Conservation, Emissions Reduction Lecture: 8 Optional lab: 8 AI for Sustainable Innovation
AI-Driven Logical Reasoning This course dives into machine reasoning and its applications in automating business decision-making. Learners will explore how AI can replicate human-like reasoning for tasks such as knowledge representation, inference, and decision support. Hands-on exercises will focus on building AI systems capable of handling complex business logic. Machine Reasoning, AI Automation, Knowledge Representation, Logical Reasoning, Decision-Making Models, Inference, AI Cognitive Functions Lecture: 12 Optional lab: 12 AI-Driven Logical Reasoning
Automatic Speech Recognition Learn to design automatic speech recognition (ASR) systems using Python. This course introduces key techniques for converting spoken language into text, making ASR solutions feasible for customer service, data entry, and accessibility needs. Participants gain hands-on experience with acoustic modeling, language processing, and API integration to create efficient, real-world ASR applications. Automatic Speech Recognition, ASR, Python, Language Processing, Speech-to-Text, Text-to-Speech, Acoustic Modeling, APIs, Data Entry Lecture: 4 Optional lab: 4 Automatic Speech Recognition
Deep Learning for Business Success This course offers hands-on experience with deep learning techniques, focusing on building and optimizing neural networks to solve business challenges. Learners will use tools like TensorFlow and Keras to create models for classification, regression, and image recognition, with the aim of developing deep learning solutions that offer competitive business advantages. Deep Learning, Neural Networks, Python, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Keras, Image Recognition, Classification, Regression, Model Optimization Lecture: 12 Optional lab: 12 Deep Learning for Business Success
Demystify Artificial Neural Networks, without Coding This course introduces Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) using intuitive, non-coding tools to make AI accessible to business professionals. Learners will experiment with ANN structures and hyperparameters using cloud-based and GUI tools to solve pattern recognition and classification challenges, gaining insights without needing to code. Ideal for both business and technical users. Artificial Neural Networks, Machine Learning, GUI-based Tools, Neural Network Training, Pattern Recognition, Data Classification, Model Performance, Interactive Learning Lecture: 8 Optional lab: 8 Demystify Artificial Neural Networks, without Coding
Develop and Design Databases for Business Growth This course empowers participants to design and manage modern databases that align with business needs. From SQL to NoSQL, learners will master the key skills needed to handle business data effectively, including data governance and ethical data handling, ensuring they are prepared to optimize workplace data management systems. Database Design, SQL, NoSQL, Data Modeling, Relational Databases, Data Governance, Hadoop, MySQL, MongoDB Lecture: 12 Optional lab: 12 Develop and Design Databases for Business Growth
Fuzzy Logic & Decision Systems This course focuses on applying fuzzy logic to make smart decisions in uncertain business environments. Learners will explore fuzzy set theory, membership functions, and inference systems to develop reasoning skills for handling ambiguous data. Ideal for decision-makers aiming to manage risk and uncertainty in business operations. Fuzzy Logic, Fuzzy Systems, Decision-making, Uncertainty Management, Computational Intelligence, Fuzzy Inference Systems, Optimization Lecture: 4 Optional lab: 4 Fuzzy Logic & Decision Systems
Generative AI for Business Innovation This course explores the potential of generative AI to transform industries by automating content creation and enhancing customer engagement. Learners will gain hands-on experience with APIs and AI services to generate text, images, and audio that support real-world business decisions, providing innovative tools for today’s competitive market. Generative AI, Industry Applications, Content Creation, AI Services, Online APIs, Decision Support, AI for Business, Image Generation, Text Generation Lecture: 4 Optional lab: 4 Generative AI for Business Innovation
Genetic Algorithms for Business Optimization Explore how Genetic Algorithms (GA) can solve complex optimization problems in business, from logistics to product design. This course introduces learners to GA concepts like selection, crossover, and mutation, giving them the tools to create efficient solutions using natural evolution principles in various business contexts. Genetic Algorithms, Optimization, Evolutionary Algorithms, Crossover, Mutation, Business Applications, Heuristic Search, Fitness Functions Lecture: 4 Optional lab: 4 Genetic Algorithms for Business Optimization
Intelligent Process Automation for Business This course introduces learners to automating repetitive business tasks through intelligent agents and process automation. Explore how AI, machine learning, and speech recognition can streamline workflows, improving efficiency and reducing operational costs in areas like customer service and sentiment analysis. Process Automation, AI, Machine Learning, Speech Recognition, Sentiment Analysis, Customer Face Detection, Desktop Automation, Web Automation, Cloud AI APIs Lecture: 8 Optional lab: 8 Intelligent Process Automation for Business
Knowledge Graphs for Business Insights Learners in this course will master the creation of knowledge graphs to enhance data relationships for decision-making. Using Neo4j Graph Database, participants will analyze complex data connections and learn to implement knowledge graphs that provide valuable insights for business strategy and AI-driven analytics. Knowledge Graphs, Data Linkage, Graph Algorithms, Neo4j, Knowledge Representation, AI-Driven Analytics, Data Relationships Lecture: 4 Optional lab: 4 Knowledge Graphs for Business Insights
Machine Learning for Business Success This course teaches practical machine learning techniques for business applications. Learners will explore how to build, evaluate, and deploy models using Python and scikit-learn, with hands-on practice in applying algorithms to solve real-world problems in classification, regression, and clustering, leading to data-driven decisions. Machine Learning, Python, scikit-learn, Classification, Regression, Clustering, Applied Machine Learning, Model Evaluation Lecture: 12 Optional lab: 12 Machine Learning for Business Success
Natural Language Processing for Business This course focuses on how businesses can use Natural Language Processing (NLP) to interpret and act on human language data. Learners will explore sentiment analysis, topic modeling, and named entity recognition using Python and tools like spaCy, equipping them with practical skills for analyzing text data in business contexts. Natural Language Processing, NLP, Python, Sentiment Analysis, Text Analytics, Tokenization, Topic Modeling, Named Entity Recognition, spaCy Lecture: 8 Optional lab: 8 Natural Language Processing for Business
Predictive Modeling using Orange Learners will develop predictive modeling skills to identify trends and gain insights for strategic decision-making. This course offers practical applications of predictive analytics and machine learning, empowering learners to apply statistical methods to business data for a competitive edge. Predictive Analytics, Data Science, Statistical Modeling, Forecasting, Anomaly Detection, Business Insights, Orange Lecture: 12 Optional lab: 12 Predictive Modeling using Orange
Predictive Modeling using Python Learners will develop predictive modeling skills to identify trends and gain insights for strategic decision-making. This course offers practical applications of predictive analytics and machine learning, empowering learners to apply statistical methods to business data for a competitive edge. Predictive Analytics, Data Science, Statistical Modeling, Forecasting, Anomaly Detection, Business Insights, Python Lecture: 12 Optional lab: 12 Predictive Modeling using Python
Predictive Modeling using R Learners will develop predictive modeling skills to identify trends and gain insights for strategic decision-making. This course offers practical applications of predictive analytics and machine learning, empowering learners to apply statistical methods to business data for a competitive edge. Predictive Analytics, Data Science, Statistical Modeling, Forecasting, Anomaly Detection, Business Insights, R Lecture: 12 Optional lab: 12 Predictive Modeling using R
Statistics and Analysis for Business Decisions Learners will explore statistical analysis techniques for business applications, covering hypothesis testing, regression, and probability. Using R programming, participants will gain hands-on experience interpreting statistical data to inform business decisions, making this course essential for those seeking data-driven insights. Statistics, R Programming, Probability, Regression, Business Analytics, Hypothesis Testing, Simulation, Confidence Intervals, Data-Driven Decision Making Lecture: 12 Optional lab: 12 Statistics and Analysis for Business Decisions
Statistics and Analysis for Business Decisions (Bootcamp) Designed for business professionals, this bootcamp covers statistical analysis using R, focusing on descriptive analysis and data visualization. With a mix of lectures and hands-on workshops, learners will analyze data and derive actionable business insights. Statistics, Data Science, R Programming, Data Visualization, Statistical Analysis Lecture: 8 Optional lab: 8 Statistics and Analysis for Business Decisions (Bootcamp) Statistics and Analysis for Business Decisions (Bootcamp) Statistics and Analysis for Business Decisions (Bootcamp)

4. Research Interests and Aspirations [TBD]

Research Areas:

Current Research Projects: Provide short summaries for ongoing projects, such as:


5. Professional Experience [TBD]

Highlight your previous roles:


6. Projects Show Cases [TBD]

Open Source: Highlight significant contributions to GitHub. Feature projects or repositories demonstrating your hands-on expertise in AI and data science. Provide direct links, e.g., GitHub Profile.

Mention any awards or recognitions, such as contributions to AI research or impactful industry projects.

Industry Partnerships: Include collaborations with businesses or institutions (Barclays, Yokogawa, etc.).

Supervised student interships and projects.


7. Reference: [TBD]

Invite organizations, academic institutions, or other professionals to contact you for guest lectures, consulting, or collaborative research: “Interested in working together? Reach out for collaborations or speaking opportunities in AI, Data Science, and more.”