David Prada Email & Phone Number

Research-driven Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science alumni of Duke University with extensive experience in machining, CAD, Python, C++, C, ML algorithms, and micro-fabrication. Proven ability to work in a fast-paced environment and quickly adapt to changing conditions as seen in my experience conducting research full-time. Specialized knowledge of materials science and analysis. Seeking a job in Robotics, computer science, or control systems.

• Associate Research Fellow

  Duke Ni Material Science Lab

  Mar 2022 - May 2024 - Durham, North Carolina, United States

  · Research into a soft robot with material-level sensing and actuation.· Hands-on experience with micro-fabrication: micro-soldering, LPKF laser cutter, clean room, etc.· Worked on creating an ML algorithm for the soft robot.· Worked with a PID controller to have the robot have constant feedback when trying to stabilize itself.· Research on human-robot interfaces.· Shape reconstruction using a simplified FEA within a 5% error of actual positions.· The robot was able to actuate up to 12 mm, 27% of the length of each side.· Conducted a poster presentation for 2 hours where I had to explain the research I conducted to various professors at Duke.