Automated Maskless Photoalignment
DMD projection, motorized polarizer, and confocal autofocus; ~2 μm features with repeatable focus and registration.
Mechatronics & Test Engineer I design, machine, wire, and automate instruments.
PhD physicist turned builder. LabVIEW control, precision mechanics (SolidWorks + CNC), motion & sensing, Python/C for analysis. Based in Austin (onsite or hybrid).
- Maskless polarized-UV photoalignment instrument with DMD + confocal autofocus.
- Dynamic liquid-crystal cell with closed-loop control of twist, thickness, and temperature.
- Drumline robot: brushless + ODrive, telemetry, and expressive control.
Projects
Selected engineering and automation projects across optics, mechatronics, and fabrication.
Dynamic LC Cell Twist–Thickness–Temperature
Precision mechanism under a polarizing microscope with capacitance thickness sensing and LabVIEW automation.
Gas-Propelled Autoinjector Proprietary
R&D on a novel gas-propelled autoinjector: mechanism refinements, flow regulation, retraction timing, and end-to-end characterization in a hands-on team.
Pancharatnam-Berry Lens Array
Six-element geometric-phase lens array patterned via multi-exposure azimuth fields; f ≈ 2.5 cm.
3D Director Simulation Math→C Codegen
Mathematica-derived Euler–Lagrange, auto-generated C kernels, flexible 3D director relaxation.
Kite Aerial Photography Rig
Pre-drone RC pan/tilt, Picavet self-leveling, and a mechanical shutter actuator; 40+ custom parts.
Elastium SMA Casting Proprietary
Controls and integration on a continuous-casting furnace; responsibilities only, no media.
Focus Areas
I design, build, and validate instruments that blend mechanics, optics, and electronics. My work spans applied R&D, hands-on pedagogy, and simulation—quick two-sentence snapshots here, with deeper dives available on request.
Teaching
I developed instrumentation-rich labs, capstone experiences, and design clinics that bridge theory with build skills. My classes emphasize iterative prototyping, documentation, and team execution.
Science
PhD work in liquid-crystal photonics delivered maskless alignment tools, tunable optics, and precision metrology. I translate research instruments into reliable lab systems ready for collaborators.
Computation
I pair Mathematica-derived models with compiled kernels and Python toolchains for fast iteration. From inverse design to controls, my workflows turn math into maintainable code and visualization.
Experience
Lab apparatus and instrumented demos; DAQ/motion/sensors; documentation. Taught future engineers with a focus on hands-on applications.
Thermodynamics modeling; automated test rigs; LabVIEW DAQ & analysis. Auto-injector prototype development with novel propellant systems.
Controls & instrumentation; repeatability; systems readiness. Continuous-casting furnace automation for single-crystal SMA production (proprietary).
Taught introductory calculus- and non-calculus-based physics courses for classes up to 120 students. Delivered applied lectures and labs, using real-world examples to deepen understanding.
Co-owned and operated Iconic Photography, a documentary portrait and wedding studio known for high-quality work and strong client relationships.
Provided expert Apple hardware/software support. Promoted to Senior Technician, earned multiple Apple certifications, and resolved complex issues with exceptional service.
Education
2015
Kent State University
Ph.D. Chemical Physics
Kent, Ohio
Advisor: Prof. Hiroshi Yokoyama
Developed custom optical instrumentation and automation software to study the structure and behavior of nematic liquid crystals. Work combined theoretical modeling, materials fabrication, and advanced microscopy techniques to enable novel experiments in surface anchoring, defect energetics, and optical phase control.
2008
Cal Poly
B.S. Physics
San Luis Obispo, California
Completed a rigorous, hands-on physics program at Cal Poly, with coursework in classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, and experimental design. The university’s “learn by doing” philosophy provided early exposure to electronics, instrumentation, and laboratory methods—laying the groundwork for both graduate research and technical problem-solving in industry.
2006
Sherburne Sculptures
Apprentice Machinist
Atascadero, California
Gained foundational experience in machining and fabrication while apprenticing under a precision machinist. Learned manual milling, lathe work, toolmaking, and the fundamentals of part tolerances and material behavior. This early hands-on training sparked a lifelong passion for designing and building physical systems.
Let's Build
Available for onsite or hybrid roles in Austin, and consulting nationwide for instrument design, automation, and precision builds.
cc@physicscloud.net
Austin, Texas