University of Florida · Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering
SYBORGS Laboratory
Synthetic Biological Optimization, Regulation, or Generation Systems Laboratory — Dry Laboratory
Overview
Contributed to the design, fabrication, integration, and testing of robotic systems within a multidisciplinary engineering research laboratory. My work spans mechanical design, advanced manufacturing, embedded electronics, PCB development, rapid prototyping, and systems integration for robotics operating in terrestrial, biological, and space-inspired environments.
Throughout my work in the laboratory, I have developed experience taking engineering systems from concept through CAD, manufacturing, assembly, electronics integration, and experimental validation.
Research Projects
Continuous Directed Evolution Bioreactor
Development of a terrestrial analog capable of simulating aspects of microgravity through continuous directed evolution within a bioreactor system. The current platform additionally investigates extreme environmental conditions through programmable temperature, salinity, and pH regulation.
Technical Contributions
- —Mechanical CAD design using Autodesk Fusion 360 and SolidWorks (Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate – CSWA)
- —CNC manufacturing and CAM programming
- —Waterjet fabrication
- —Manual lathe machining
- —Python and Arduino software development
- —Electronics integration
Engineering Contributions
- —Fluid slip-ring concepts
- —Thermal regulation subsystem development
- —Mechanical component fabrication
- —System integration
Autonomous Planetary Robotic Colonization Using Locally Manufactured Bioplastics
Development of robotic systems capable of autonomous construction using biologically produced structural materials for future extraterrestrial habitats.
Technical Contributions
- —CAD design
- —CAM programming
- —CNC machining
- —Rapid mechanical prototyping
Engineering Contributions
- —Undergraduate-led rapid two-day robotic prototype
- —Mechanical architecture
- —Electronics layout
- —System assembly
- —Team integration
- —Preliminary six-axis robotic assembly arm concepts
Suborbital Biological Payload Capsule
Design, manufacture, and testing of a pressure-sealed biological payload intended for suborbital flight environments.
Technical Contributions
- —PCB development using KiCad
- —Mechanical CAD
- —CAM programming
- —Prototype fabrication
Engineering Contributions
- —Pressure vessel design
- —Capsule and lid architecture
- —Pressure seal development
- —PCB layout
- —Electronics routing
- —Design rule verification
Laboratory Archive
Technical Experience
Mechanical Design
- Parametric CAD modeling
- Mechanical assemblies
- Tolerance analysis
- Design for Manufacturing (DFM)
- Technical drawings
- Rapid prototyping
- Systems integration
Software
- SolidWorks (Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate – CSWA)
- Autodesk Fusion 360
Manufacturing
- CNC machining (ACE Certified)
- CAM programming
- Manual milling
- Engine lathe operation
- Waterjet manufacturing
- Precision metrology
- Drilling, tapping, reaming
- Component finishing
Electronics & Embedded Systems
- PCB design
- KiCad
- Arduino development
- Embedded programming
- Sensor integration
- Wiring
- Electronics debugging
- Hardware validation
Programming
Languages
- Python
- Arduino / C++
Applications
- Automation
- Embedded control
- Experimental testing
- Data processing
- Engineering utilities
Engineering Practice
- Multidisciplinary design
- Design reviews
- Engineering documentation
- Experimental testing
- Iterative development
- Laboratory safety
- Machine shop safety
- Collaborative engineering