I build mechatronics and automate experiments for the scientists studying animal brains at Janelia Research Campus. Examples of these experiments include odor, alcohol, visual, and audio assays for fruit flies, camera tracking systems for zebrafish and larvae, haptic feedback joysticks for mice, and automated sensor and actuator stations for rats.
I write software and embedded firmware, design and assemble circuit boards and electrical systems, build distributed systems of networked electromechanical devices and sensors, and support and maintain experimental rigs and firmware libraries for a variety of users over years of service.
I enjoy blurring the lines between hardware and software, engineering and science, practice and theory, high-level system architecture and low-level component details. I love reading. I love making things!
I use free and open software and hardware whenever possible and encourage others to do the same. Some of my favorite free software includes Emacs, Guix, Debian, KiCAD, and FreeCAD.