Zach Ernst, Ph.D.

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