Assoc. Prof. Boryana Pelova, PhD

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Boryana Pelova is an internationally recognized professional with a career spanning over 15 years in the field of data analysis and large dataset processing. Her expertise extends across both conventional and cutting-edge machine learning techniques. She has made significant contributions to the academic and applied aspects of this domain via leading and participating in a number of research projects, aimed at improving society challenges such as air quality, prevention of depression, digitalization of public sector and SMEs, financial stability, etc. The current projects of Assoc. Prof. Pelova are: • Digitalization of SMEs (since 2023) • SHARE-ERIC Bulgaria (since 2018) • Project in „Fundamental Science 2023“ program by the National Science Fund (since 2023) Assoc. Prof. Pelova’s expertise goes beyond her research contributions. She has played a pivotal role in the development of the MSc Program "AI for Business and Finance" as its academic director. She is actively nurturing the next generation of AI and data science professionals through engaging young professionals in the academic life of Sofia University via projects and programs. Among her significant contributions is the development of an industry-funded PhD program. In commitment to societal development, she has also served as the Head of the Career Center at FEBA (from its establishment in 2016 until 2023), organizing numerous impactful career events that offer support to high school and university students in finding their fulfilling career path. Assoc. Prof. Pelova has served as Vice-Dean of FEBA in the period 2019 – 2023. In this role she contributes significantly to the development of a sustainable business-academic relationship in support of modern high-tech educational process. Since 2023 Assoc. Prof. Pelova works actively towards creation of school-university-business synergy. She is among the leaders who initiate the affiliation of Vocational School of Computer Programming and Innovation in Burgas as an associate school to Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski" and currently she coordinates the joint activities on behalf of FEBA.