At Rolls-Royce, technology and digital transformation are the fundamental focus areas for meeting today’s rapidly evolving customer requirements. R2 Data Labs, launched in 2017, enables Rolls-Royce to innovate data in order to drive change and efficiency across the business and to deliver value to customers.
Dr Mallick, associated with R2 Data Labs in Bengaluru as a Principal Data Scientist, talks about how he leverages Data Science, Applied Mathematics and AI for Engine Health Monitoring (EHM), and what he loves most about his work.
What I work on…
I’m part of R2 Data Labs, where the primary focus is to harness the power of data to identify and build disruptive technologies for creating the most value for our customers and businesses from data innovation. My specialisation in Aerospace Structures, Applied Mathematics and Machine Intelligence / AI, allows me to integrate engineering perspective with Data Science and latest rapid-development techniques – such as sprints and DevOps, to help our customers reimagine the way they operate. By finding actionable insights and applying new technology to address challenges across the business, we are changing the way Rolls-Royce operates. Besides this, I also coach and mentor budding technologists and scientists. Each of these roles are fulfilling in different ways.
What my work day usually looks like…
At any minute there are millions of bytes of data streaming in from our engines. Using AI, Applied Mathematics and Machine Learning, I along with my team members analyse this big data to gather and deliver actionable insights to businesses across Rolls-Royce. For example, as part of Engine Health Monitoring, we use Machine Learning techniques along with advanced statistical approaches to calculate and evaluate the remaining useful life of an aero engine. This helps reduce servicing costs for Rolls-Royce and delivers value by maximising time on-wing for customers.
What I love most about my work …
The ability to turn an innovative idea into a productive real-life solution for customers is what I love most about my work. That itself is very energizing! I get motivated by working on innovative Research and Technology (R&T) projects and contributing to our business strategy through research articles. I also enjoy exploring the future of Scientific Computing, such as Quantum Computing, disruptive technologies, viz. Mixed Reality. The challenge of delivering novel solutions for businesses and coaching budding scientists and technologists inspires me each day.
My advice for people looking to join R2 Data Labs…
Being a part of R2 Data Labs gives me the opportunity as well as the responsibility to lead the path of technological breakthroughs, research and innovation. Together with my team, I work on exciting future-focused projects to derive the most out of technological advances. I'm proud to be a part of a team that adds value to businesses and plays a pivotal role in pioneering the power that matters to our customers.
If you are passionate about digital and new technology trends, open to bringing in ideas and challenging existing norms, and want to work with some of the most talented individuals on exciting projects, join our team.
Data in the future…
In the next five years, I foresee an AI revolution, where AI will be ubiquitous. Machine Intelligence will aid humans in making complex decisions. It will enhance our engineering know-how and address business complexities through data-driven solutions. I do not expect AI to replace human intelligence, but it will amplify human capabilities. For example, in the next decade as aircraft fleet is forecasted to double, AI will play a vital role in addressing the aircraft and aero engine Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul requirements through data-driven analysis and forecasts to ensure that growth is sustainable and serves society. This would be an exciting new phase for the aviation industry.