Who is Who in VHB ProDok
Meet the lecturers of the VHB ProDok programme
Martin Spindler is Professor of Statistics and Data Science at the University of Hamburg Business School. He has been a visiting researcher at MIT, Columbia University and Boston College, among others. His research focuses on the fundamentals of AI and its applications in business administration and economics, particularly in the emerging field of causal machine learning. He regularly teaches ProDok courses in this field, most recently from 31 August to 3 September 2026.
What fascinates you about causal machine learning?
Causal Machine Learning is fascinating because it is a new type of AI that enables us to use data to answer questions about the ‘why’. In fact, all interesting questions are causal in nature. Causal machine learning is therefore important in all areas of business administration, including marketing, finance, health economics, operations research and human resources.
What challenges and opportunities do you think early-career researchers face?
Artificial intelligence (AI), large language models and digitalisation in general are among the greatest breakthroughs in human history. They open up new and exciting possibilities and opportunities for young researchers that cannot yet be foreseen. Exciting times! However, this also makes us forget that things don't always run 'perfectly' in academia.
What inspires you?
Currently, my main focus is on progress in the field of AI, and on how these methods can be sensibly used in business research and economics.
And what else?
I'm looking forward to the projects and conferences coming up this year. Above all, it will be exciting to see what further developments there are in the field of AI and data science.
Who is Who - About
VHB ProDok instructors are distinguished by their research excellence, internationally recognised expertise and high level of professional commitment. Many of them have been involved with the ProDok programme for a number of years. In the 'Who is Who' section, they share insights into their personal motivations, experience, and the courses they teach.
This section showcases the exceptional quality of VHB ProDok, highlighting its status as a unique initiative brought together by dedicated scholars who value sound research, methodological rigour, and collegial exchange — all curated by the VHB.