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Christfried Focke
Chief Scientist AI at AppFolio, specialized in Machine Learning and Particle Physics
Christfried H. Focke is a prominent figure in the field of machine learning and artificial intelligence, currently serving as a Chief Scientist at AppFolio, Inc. He has a strong background in both practical applications of machine learning and theoretical physics.
Professional Experience
Focke's career at AppFolio has seen him progress through several roles:
- Chief Scientist AI (June 2023 - Present): Leading AI initiatives in Zurich, Switzerland.
- Chief Scientist AI (May 2022 - June 2023): Focused on generative AI and large language models (LLMs) in the San Francisco Bay Area.
- Principal Machine Learning Engineer (June 2021 - May 2022): Worked on LISA Conversational AI, contributing to research and product development.
- Staff Machine Learning Engineer (June 2020 - June 2021): Specialized in conversational AI.
Prior to his tenure at AppFolio, Focke held various positions at LogMeIn and Citrix Systems, where he led projects in content intelligence and machine learning applications.
Education
Focke holds a Ph.D. in Elementary Particle Physics from Northwestern University (2011 - 2015) and has completed both his Master's and Bachelor's degrees in Physics at the Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich (ETH Zurich).
Contributions and Research
Focke has contributed to several engineering blogs at AppFolio, discussing advancements in AI, particularly the integration of LLMs into traditional machine learning workflows. His work emphasizes enhancing the performance and flexibility of AI applications in property management through intelligent systems that leverage both traditional models and LLMs.123
Awards and Recognition
He has received various accolades, including the AppFolio Shout Out Award in October 2023, which recognizes employees who exemplify the company's values and commitment to excellence.1
Skills and Languages
Focke is proficient in machine learning, AI development, and high-energy physics, and he is fluent in German and English, with basic knowledge of Spanish.1
His extensive experience and educational background position him as a significant contributor to the field of machine learning and AI applications in property management.