Vikash Agrawal

Data Scientist | Risk Management & Fraud Prevention

IIT Bombay Alumnus

whoami

Data Scientist at PayPal focused on building data-driven solutions for risk management and fraud prevention. Skilled in SQL, Python, advanced analytics, and data storytelling, I specialize in transforming complex, ambiguous datasets into actionable business decisions. I have led high-impact, multimillion-dollar initiatives and received multiple VP Awards for developing precision algorithms and ML models.

core_stack

Python SQL XGBoost ML Statistical Analysis Data Science Risk Management Fraud Prevention NPV Modeling

experience_logs

Data Scientist @ PayPal

May 2025 - Present | Remote
Performance Rating: Exceptional (Highest Possible)
  • Optimized risk thresholds across an $80B monthly transaction portfolio, driving a 9.5% YoY reduction in false declines using Control Group-based SQL and Python forecasting models.
  • Generated $5M in average monthly savings and neutralized sophisticated fraud attacks by deploying dynamic risk controls and architecting automated tracking for risk funnels.
  • Slashed computational runtimes by 70% and saved 100+ hours of manual effort monthly by deploying an XGBoost machine learning model and developing granular loss-forecasting algorithms.

Analyst Risk Management II @ American Express

Apr 2022 - Apr 2024 | Gurugram
Performance Rating: 1 (Highest Possible) | 2x VP Recognition Award
  • Delivered over $5M in cost savings and accelerated campaign time-to-market by 60% by architecting a proprietary prospect database with advanced Python automation scripts.
  • Achieved a 1.5x increase in targeted capture rates through the development of hyperparameter-tuned ML segmentation models and a predictive SQL/Python forecasting engine.
  • Propelled top-line revenue by pioneering a Python-based Net Present Value (NPV) model and deploying a strategic merchant recommendation algorithm.

Consultant, Advanced Analytics @ PharmaACE

Aug 2021 - Apr 2022 | Pune
  • Transformed complex pharmaceutical data into world-class business insights and strategic solutions for top-tier global clients.

education_and_certifications

IIT Bombay

B.Tech, Chemical Engineering

Jul 2017 - Aug 2021

Campus Leadership: Events Head (Hostel 2) managing a ₹6L budget, Institute Sports Convener, and Student Mentor for underprivileged youth.

Stanford University

Machine Learning Certifications

Issued: Jan 2026

Advanced coursework covering Unsupervised Learning, Recommenders, and Reinforcement Learning.

Harvard Business School Online

Data Analysis, Storytelling & Business Statistics

Aug 2023 - Jan 2024