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HELENE LEVY
(530) 902-4990 • hjlevy@ucla.edu
EDUCATION
University of California, Los Angeles June 2025
Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering
Cumulative GPA: 3.89/4
University of California, Santa Barbara
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Cumulative GPA: 3.9/4 (Rank 1/91)
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SKILLS
• 200+ Hours (Experienced): SolidWorks, MATLAB, Python, LaTeX, Project Management
• 50+ Hours (Proficient): C++, Simulink, Zendesk, Abaqus, COMSOL, Lathe, Mill (End Milling and Drilling), and Hand-Tapping, Soldering
• Languages: Basic French and Vietnamese.
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RELEVANT COURSEWORK
Neural Networks and Deep Learning • Probability and Stochastic Processes • Robust Control • Optimal Control • Convex Optimization •
Linear Systems • Robotic Control • Control Systems Design • Soft Robotics
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
Graduate Student Researcher | UCLA Lopez Group July 2021 – Present
• Researching controls processes with safety guarantees by combining model predictive control methods with reinforcement learning.
• Adapting traditional grid-based motion planners for UAVs to use dynamically-feasible motion primitives.
• Developing and simulating a classification algorithm to expedite decision making from a classical motion planner.
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Graduate Student Researcher | UCLA Chen Group September 2020 – July 2021
• Researched self-programmable UAV navigation in unknown environments with reinforcement learning.
• Developed Python code to land a Parrot drone on a moving target using image processing techniques while streaming video in real time.​
Visiting Robotics Researcher | Tokyo Institute of Technology, Iwatsuki Group June 2019 – September 2019
• Designed, manufactured, and tested feasibility of a novel rickshaw robot with position and velocity control.
• Optimized and designed two four-bar linkage systems for a natural bipedal robot gait.
• Developed C++ code for programming photo-interrupters to use as motor encoders.
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Process Engineering Intern | ZPower June 2018 – September 2018
• Designed two novel mechanical assemblies in Solidworks to be used by Maintenance staff and R&D team to conduct preventative maintenance and fundamental research for the battery assembly lines.
• Communicated regularly with outside machinists and distributor representatives to implement my designs.
• Documented preventative maintenance procedures in uniPoint for battery assembly line stations.
Foot Drop Assistive Shoe Research | UCSB ME, Susko Research Group October 2017 – June 2018
• Conceptualized and prototyped assistive shoes to regulate the gait of clients with foot drop, a condition that causes limited toe flexion.
• Led the SolidWorks design and manufacturing of three different shoes in the span of one quarter
• Awarded the maximum $750 in funding from the Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities Grant with my written project proposal and budget planning application.
PROJECT WORK
NOAA Retrievable Ocean Mooring | UCSB Capstone September 2019 – June 2020
• Collaborated in a team of five to realize the full design process of a novel retrievable mooring system, all in the midst of COVID-19.
• Applied static and dynamic mechanical engineering theory as well as material theory to develop robust underwater designs.
• Regularly led communication between sponsors, advisors, field experts, and the project team.
Lid Lad – Most Marketable Junior Design Project | UCSB ME I53 April 2019 – June 2019
• Collaborated in a team of six to conceptualize, design, and fabricate a thermally-regulated, spill-proof coffee lid.
• Developed initial code logic for opening a servo-controlled vent in response to temperature change below a user-set threshold.
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First Place Design Proposal | UCSB Engineering Writing Contest May 2017
• Collaborated in a team of five to conceptualize and write a design proposal for a prosthetic arm made of bicycle parts proposed for amputees living in developing countries.
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WORK EXPERIENCE
Operations Coordinator | UCSB Collaborate Student Support Center April 2018 – September 2019
• Answered an average of three phone calls per hour addressing issues with student login, identity, and requestable software.
• Supervised and provided instruction to 35+ technical consultants troubleshooting printer and projector issues.
• Managed 50+ computer labs on campus.
Learning Assistant | UCSB Physics Department December 2017 – April 2018
• Mediated communication between the Teaching Assistant and engineering students pursuing their first physics
course at university level.
• Guided 40+ students through challenging physics problems and regularly presented solutions to the class.
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VOLUNTEER WORK
Math, Science, and College Prep Coach | UPchieve June 2021 – Present
• Tutor underserved middle school/high school students online in the following topics: algebra, geometry trigonometry, precalculus, calculus, physics, college admissions process.
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PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
Events Chair | Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Graduate Council March 2022 – Present
• Plan and fundraise social and professional events for graduate students in the department.
• Established online discussion board for department graduate students to discuss enrollment questions, PhD requirements, and social excursions.
President | Engineers Without Borders May 2017 – June 2020
• Led a multidisciplinary officer board of 10 officers to oversee technical projects in three different countries.
• Hosted, planned, and fundraised for an annual recruiting event for 80+ engineering students to network with companies dedicated to humanitarian engineering.
• Mediated communication between campus administration and officer board.
President | Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society September 2018 – June 2020
• Led a multidisciplinary engineering officer board of 6 officers responsible for initiating 30+ members annually.
• Held tutoring services, and seminars for the professional and academic development of 1st and 2nd year engineering students.
• Communicated with surrounding chapters to give and receive advice on member retention, community service work, and development projects.
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AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
NSF GRFP Honorable Mention April 2022
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OTHER AFFILIATIONS
Member, Society of Women Engineers • Member, American Society of Mechanical Engineers
HOBBIES AND INTERESTS
Painting • Embroidery • Cooking • Outdoors • Hiking • Traveling • Rock Climbing
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