Zach Ernst, Ph.D.

540 Mandana Blvd., Oakland, CA, 94610 734.707.9224 zach.r.ernst@gmail.com

Overview

I seek to combine my expertise in programming, data analysis, and information design with my desire to create a more sustainable society. My doctorate in neuroscience provides me with a strong quantitative skill set, an aptitude for crafting presentations to match the technical expertise of my audience, and the ability to collaborate on difficult problems while being comfortable working independently. As an advocate for renewable energy, collaborative consumption, and sustainability, I found academic research interesting, but want to have a more direct impact by harnessing the power of big data to make systems more efficient (a smarter more distributed energy grid) and change consumer behavior. I believe that my 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 Experimental Cognitive Psychology, University of Washington Dr. Geoffrey M. Boynton (advisor) Conducted original functional MRI, EEG, and behavioral research in cognitive neuroscience Top Scholar Award, 2007 Bachelor of Science Film & Physics, Northwestern University Deans List, 2003 & 2005 20012005

Skills

Quantitative programming (MATLAB, Python, MySQL), data analysis, statistics (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, presenting quantitative information to wide audiences, teaching, public speaking, conversational French

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.

Experience

Data Scientist 20132014 kWh Analytics (risk analysis for solar financing), San Francisco Bay Area, CA. Modeling solar panel output from a large production data set Data Analyst 2013 Fourth Sector Strategies (sustainability consulting firm), San Francisco Bay Area, CA. 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 Institute for Learning & Brain Sciences, Seattle, WA. Dr. Adrian KC Lee (principle investigator) 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, Tulsa, OK. Eric Fransen (master craftsman) High-end cabinet and furniture design, production, and installation Use Adobe Illustrator, Google SketchUp, and machine interface software to perform automated cutting and engraving routines for CNC router and laser cutter Research Assistant 20062007 University of Michigan, Ann Arbor Dr. Jonathan Demb (principle investigator) 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 Chicago Audubon Society & Cook County Forest Preserve, Evanston, IL. Stephen Packard (wilderness steward) Managed 90-acre wilderness prairie preserve 2005

Teaching

Sensory and Perceptual Processes University of Washington Laboratory in Human Performance University of Washington Introduction to Probability and Statistics for Psychology University of Washington

2012 2010 2009

Interests

environmental protection, renewable energy, sustainability | understanding how things work, self-reliance, DIY | making things, industrial design & production, repurposing found materials, wood work, sewing | sports with a view: hiking, biking, climbing, skiing, etc. | abstract strategy games (e.g. chess, go) and Euro-style board games with resource management & economic mechanics
Zach Ernst 540 Mandana Blvd., Oakland, CA, 94610 734.707.9224 zach.r.ernst@gmail.com