Marc de Lecea

Experience

Automation Engineer

• Created LLM-powered platemap transformer for users to quickly create complex plate layouts.
• Developed a universal Lynx liquid handler worklist parser that optimizes multi-dispensing, splits volumes to fit tips, and automatically arranges labware to enhance operational efficiency.
• Designed and implemented an API to receive and parse real-time usage data from lab instruments, ensuring prompt alerts through Slack messages if an instrument requires attention.
• Hosted and integrated Streamlit data dashboard using live lab instrument data from the API, enhancing data visualization and analysis capabilities.
• Successfully onboarded a fully integrated HighRes system, increasing bandwidth by 600%.
• Created and maintained a modular Python API that transforms platemaps and generates worklists for liquid handlers, streamlining workflows.
• Collaborated with the Informatics team to host the API using AWS Lambda and implemented an Aurelia frontend for the tools.
• Designed intelligent Lunatic transfer and read methods, enabling fully automatic normalization from concentration readings by updating database and calling custom API.
• Improved liquid handler integration driver reliability and reduced command latency by 1000%.
• Elevated barcode coverage from 0% to 70% of lab processes through new tools and trainings.
• Effectively mentored and guided junior engineers, fostering a collaborative and supportive team environment.

Manufacturing Automation Engineer

• Automated serialization process by dynamically generating laser engraving toolpath with Python.
• Took project from start to finish, including programming, hardware fixtures for ergonomics and constistency, and documentation.
• Documented usage procedure, maintenance manual, calibration tables, and validation tests for long-term manufacturing process.
• Used Agile to manage project, and used Git to track project progress.
• Prototyped and built custom batch PCB cleaning tool to speed up flux blowoff process by up to 1500% without damaging sensitive components.
• Modified and optimized Android testing application to speed up probe verification and increase accuracy, as well as reduce training needed.

Research Assistant

• Applied A* pathfinding algorithm and plane mapping to microrobot swarm simulation to provide control for previous work and broaden robot capability.
• Created MATLAB GUI to assist visualization of microrobots and their path planning decisions.
• Used LabVIEW to create manual, joystick-based control schema of microrobots using magnetic field array.
• Implemented vision tracking system to measure and automatically control multiple microrobots simultaneously.
• Crafted automatic control and calibration system to accurately direct robots toward desired destination.

Machine Design Teaching Assistant

• Created interactive demo SolidWorks models and python scripts for students studying at home to demonstrate movement and fundamental concepts.
• Led office hours and published short discussion videos reviewing principle equations and problems.

Fulfillment Associate

• Optimized workflow by increasing accessibility to product depots.
• Ensured customer satisfaction with timely and thorough item searches.
• Leveraged company database to fullest extent to assess product placement.

Engineering Intern

• Developed novel root imaging robot in collaboration with PhD student to determine plant health and yield.
• Used ROS to simulate and program robotic arm.
• Used Solidworks to develop alternative mechanical solutions, saving cost and complexity.

Engineering Intern

• Created learning materials for "Bring your child to work day", including a Snap! programmable car and blockchain demonstration using Micro:Bits.
• Tinkered with Android Things and AWS DeepLens to expand platform availibility for team and exhibit new avenues of approach.

Engineering Intern

• Designed and machined parts for a lab-grade high-throughput microscope.
• Given design objectives, planned and designed parts, and got parts approved by team of five professional engineers.
• Used SolidWorks to CAD lens/mirrormounts, 3D-printed mockups, custom crates, I/O panels, and badge jigs.

Intern

• Modeled 3D views of experimental pig hearts to be printed out of agar compound using a MATLAB GUI.