Zhangao Liu
zhangao.liu@gmail.com | (203) 974-2272

Education
Bachelor of Science | Dec 2017 | Washington University in St. Louis
·     Major: Mechanical Engineering

·     Minor: Robotics

Technical Skills
·     Software:       Proficient in SolidWorks, Solid Edge, Inventor, MATLAB & Simulink

Experience with Java, Python, Arduino, HSM CAM, LabView

·     Equipment:   Proficient in mill and lathe, basic shop tools and machines

Food and Agriculture Experience
Controlled Environment Agriculture Engineer | MARSFarm | SeP 2018 – PRESENT
Working on product development at MARSfarm, an ag-tech startup that builds personal food computers aimed at the education sector. Developing Raspberry Pi-based hardware integration shield and custom LEDs. Researching plant pillow system by testing different grow mediums and wick materials.

Greenhouse Grower, Line Cook | Hamilton Hospitality | May 2017 – OCT 2017
Responsible for full life cycle of produce grown in 60 commercial hydroponic towers. Measured and monitored reservoir conditions and improved sanitation practices. Worked sauté station at Hamilton’s high-volume fine dining restaurant.

Leadership in Urban Agriculture Intern | Urban Harvest STL | APR 2018 – AUG 2018
Propagated plants, maintained and harvested crops, installed rooftop farm irrigation systems. Consulted on and installed a greenhouse automation system containing an irrigation system, smart thermostat, horticultural LED lighting, and controllable outlets powered by Growtronix.

Engineering Experience
Research Assistant | NSF Center for Engineering MechanoBiology | March 2017 – DEC 2017
Investigated mechanisms of cellular mechanosensing of fibroblast cells in collagen. Developed 3D cell animations using confocal microscopy images. Analyzed the relationship between collagen density and distance from cell. Designed and built Arduino-controlled tissue stretching device.

Cockpit Controls and Ergonomics Team Lead | Wash U Racing Team (FSAE) | Aug 2014 – May 2016
Designed various cockpit features. Performed simplified FEA and transient brake rotor temperature analysis. Designed pedal box for brake feel using pedal ratio models. Oversaw fabrication, assembly, and race readiness of all cockpit controls. Validated computer models with IR sensors and ergonomics test fixture. Reduced pedal system weight by 58% and rotor weight by 17%.

Alignment Systems Intern | Hunter Engineering Company | May 2016 – AUG 2016
Designed and built cycle test fixtures for automotive service equipment. Performed failure tests. Prototyped new products with sheet metal and silicone molds. Calibrated sensors and collected raw data from vehicle testing.

Leadership
External Vice President | Wash U Racing Team | May 2015 – 2017
Led recruitment efforts and developed onboarding program. Team membership increased from 21 to 43 members through tenure. Formed strategic, educational, and financial partnerships with corporate sponsors.

Retreat Leader | Redefining Community Experience | Jan 2014 – 2016
Collaborated with retreat leaders to design program activities and facilitate discussions. Explored topics in community building, diversity and inclusion, and social justice.