Matthew Giles

PhD Candidate in Mechanical Engineering (USC) | Controls, Applied Math, Computational Modeling | Seeking Bay Area Opportunities Aug./Sept. 2026

Los Angeles, California, United States

About

Mechanical Engineering PhD candidate at the University of Southern California (graduating Summer 2026), with a master’s degree in Applied Mathematics. My work focuses on analytical and numerical methods in probability, dynamical systems, controls, and reinforcement learning. Experience highlights: - Graduate Researcher (2022–present): Developed game-theoretic and reinforcement learning models for cancer evolution and treatment scheduling. - R&D Engineer (2019–2021): Principal Investigator on multiple SBIR/STTR projects in plasma/combustion systems. Led experimental design, data analysis, and proposal/report writing to successfully secure research funding. - Controls Engineer Intern (Summer 2025): Designed and simulated controllers for fast-steering mirrors; modeled and experimentally evaluated analog/digital systems (optical, electrical, mechanical). I bring a strong mathematical background, proven programming expertise, hands-on experimental experience, and an analytical mindset with a rigorous approach to problem-solving. Alongside my technical skills, I’ve demonstrated effective writing, communication, and leadership in both research and teaching settings. Actively seeking opportunities in the San Francisco Bay Area starting September 2026.

Experience

  • PHD Student at University of Southern California
    Aug 2021 - Present · 4 yrs 11 mos

  • Controls Engineer Intern at Adsys Controls, Inc.
    May 2025 - Aug 2025 · 4 mos

    Worked on electromechanical and optical control systems, focusing on fast-steering mirrors. Designed and simulated controllers to meet performance specifications, developed digital signal processing scripts, and analyzed analog circuits for noise and bandwidth optimization. Combined analytical modeling, simulation, and experimental validation to improve system performance.

  • R&D Engineer II at Advanced Cooling Technologies, Inc.
    Aug 2019 - Sep 2022 · 3 yrs 2 mos

    Served as Principal Investigator on multiple SBIR/STTR projects in plasma catalysis and combustion. Designed and operated experiments in nonthermal plasma reactors, analyzed data, and authored successful research proposals and technical reports. Experience included both hands-on experimental work and project leadership, bridging fundamental research with applied technology development.

  • Research Assistant at USC Combustion Physics Laboratory
    Oct 2016 - Aug 2019 · 2 yrs 11 mos