Our courses are designed by Dr. Mark Lokanan, one of Canada’s leading experts in artificial intelligence and machine learning. With advanced degrees and international experience spanning Canada, the U.S., and the U.K., he brings a unique blend of statistical, computational, and social science expertise. His interdisciplinary background ensures that DataSoSi courses go beyond teaching technical tools, focusing instead on asking the right questions, interpreting data critically, and generating meaningful insights.

Dr. Lokanan holds advanced degrees and professional designations across multiple disciplines, including data science, AI, machine learning, social sciences, accounting, and network (link) analysis. His credentials—such as CAMS, CPA, and CFE—underscore a comprehensive understanding of both technical practice and real-world application. Royal Roads University Profile

Academic Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Fraud Analytics – Simon Fraser University
• M.A. in Sociology (Statistics) – University of Guelph
• M.Sc. in Computer Science (Applied Data Science) – Dublin
• M.Sc. in Criminal Networks (Graph and Link Analysis) – San Diego
• M.Sc. in Forensic Accounting (Statistical Data Modelling) – Portsmouth
• B.A. in Sociology and Law – York University

Professional and Specialized Certifications

• Graduate Certificate in Deep Learning for AI, Carnegie Mellon University
• Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence, University of Texas
• Certificate in Artificial Intelligence Application, Northwestern University
• Certificate in Machine Learning, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
• Certificate in Data Science, Emeritus Institute of Management
• Certificate in Microsoft Azure -Generative AI, Microsoft
• Certificate in Data Analysis, Microsoft
• Certificate in Cyber Security and AI Strategy, Cornell
• Certificate in Python for Machine Learning, New York Academy
• Professional Certificate in Machine Learning, IBM
• Advanced Certificate in Accounting, McMaster University
• Advanced Certificate in Forensic Accounting, BCIT

Affiliations

• Professor at Royal Roads University
• Senior AI strategist at Vedia Cloud Analytics
• AI Expert at Ducoexperts
• AI Affiliate at Quantam Algorithm Institute

Research and Impact

As an accomplished researcher and educator, Dr. Lokanan’s expertise lies at the intersection of fraud analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning—using advanced computational methods to detect financial crime, analyze criminal networks, and design responsible AI applications. His extensive body of research is widely cited and continues to inform both academic and professional practice.

Learners at DataSoSi benefit directly from his expertise, gaining access to cutting-edge methodologies, real-world applications, and a deep understanding of the intersection between AI, data, and society.

Explore Dr. Lokanan’s publications on his Google Scholar profile and his Royal Roads University profile to learn more about his academic and professional contributions.

Media Recognition and Research Excellence

Dr. Lokanan’s work has captured the attention of national media, including coverage in the Times Colonist highlighting how his research team uses AI to uncover financial crimes and anomalies in supply-chain data (Times Colonist).

He has also been called upon to provide expert insights on the role of AI in higher education and its broader impact on society, as featured in BCBusiness (BCBusiness).

Additionally, Dr. Lokanan has secured numerous research grants, including funding from the Canadian government, to advance the use of AI in fraud detection and financial crime analytics (Royal Roads University).