540 Mandana Blvd., Oakland, CA, 94610 734.707.9224 zach.r.ernst@gmail.com
Overview
Expertise in programming, data analysis, and information design focused on advanced energy system architectures and optimizations. My doctorate in neuroscience provides strong quantitative skill set, an aptitude for collaborating on difficult problems, and the comfort to work independently. To facilitate increased renewable energy generation, I develop economic algorithms, simulations and control systems for energy networks to achieve direct commercial impact. I take a data-driven approach to efficient system design (e.g. a distributed & networked intelligence for energy grid operations). I believe that our generation will be defined not by traditional markers of economic growth, but to the extent to which we succeed in creating a more sustainable world and equitable global society. Education Doctor of Philosophy 20072012
Dr. Geoffrey Boynton (cognitive psychology), University of Washington, Seattle Conducted original functional MRI, EEG, and behavioral research in cognitive neuroscience Top Scholar Award, 2007 Bachelor of Science 20012005
Film & Physics, Northwestern University Deans List, 2003 & 2005 Skills Quantitative: programming (MATLAB, Python, MySQL), data analysis, statistics (bootstrapping, regression, Bayesian inference), linear algebra (vectorization, deconvolution), calculus, image & signal processing (Fourier transformation), machine learning (SVM, neural network, clustering, PCA), behavioral research methods Design: data visualization, graphical design (Adobe Illustrator/Photoshop), 3D modeling (Google SketchUp, Blender), video editing (Final Cut Pro), industrial fabrication (laser cutter, CNC router, PartWorks), wood work & carpentry Presentation: analytical writing, crafting presentations to match the technical expertise of the audience, explaining quantitative information, teaching Publications ZR Ernst, GM Boynton, & M Jazayeri (2013). The spread of attention across features of a surface. Journal of Neurophysiology. ZR Ernst, J Palmer, & GM Boynton (2012). Dividing attention between two transparent motion surfaces results in a failure of selective attention. Journal of Vision. MB Manookin, DL Beaudoin, ZR Ernst, LJ Flagel, & JB Demb (2008). Disinhibition combines with excitation to extend the operating range of the OFF visual pathway. Journal of Neuroscience. E Runeson, J Palmer, S Murray, ZR Ernst, GM Boynton (under review). Dividing attention across simple features: Evidence for unlimited capacity processing in primary visual cortex. Journal of Neuroscience. Zach Ernst 540 Mandana Blvd., Oakland, CA, 94610 734.707.9224 zach.r.ernst@gmail.com Experience Director of Data Analytics 2014present
Geli (energy system software), San Francisco Develop detailed energy and financial analyses & forecasts Design algorithms to control and co-optimize energy storage systems and microgrids to empower renewable energy and stabilize the grid Simulate dynamic behavior within microgrid networks Data Scientist 2013
kWh Analytics (solar financing), San Francisco Bay Area Modeled solar panel output from a large production data set Data Analyst 2013
Fourth Sector Strategies (sustainability consulting), San Francisco Bay Area Used MATLAB to analyze CoStar databases on buildings in several Bay Area cities to develop a strategic action plan for energy efficiency improvements Programmer 20122013
Dr. KC Lee (auditory psychophysics), Institute for Learning & Brain Sciences, Seattle Developed package of standardize functions in MATLAB to be used for stimulus presentation, data collection, and I/O management Cabinet/Furniture Design and Fabrication 20122013
Theorem Designs (high-end wood cabinets/furniture), Tulsa, OK Used Adobe Illustrator, Google SketchUp, and machine interface software to control CNC router and laser cutter to make furniture and cabinets Research Assistant 20062007
Dr. Jonathan Demb (neurobiologiy lab), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor Worked on independent project to adapt surgical and electrophysiological techniques to perform single-cell recordings in new mouse model Developed automated image processing code featured in Manookin et al. (2008) Ecology Restoration Intern 2005
Stephen Packard (wilderness steward), Cook County Forest Preserve, Evanston Managed 90-acre prairie preserve Teaching Sensory and Perceptual Processes, University of Washington 2012 Laboratory in Human Performance, University of Washington 2010 Introduction to Probability and Statistics for Psychology, University of Washington 2009 Interests renewable energy, sustainability, environmental stewardship | understanding how things work, self-reliance, DIY | craftsmanship, wood work, industrial design, repurposing found materials | sports with a view: hiking, biking, climbing, skiing | abstract strategy games (e.g. chess, go) and Euro-style board games with resource management & economic mechanics