Michael Cai

Michael Cai is an accomplished researcher currently serving as a Research Assistant at Columbia University, where responsibilities include the design and implementation of bottom illumination for neaSNOM at Basov Lab. Michael is also involved as a Student Researcher in the Astrophysics department at The University of Georgia, collaborating with Dr. Inseok to develop an interactive celestial map using Blender, and in Physics Education, partnering with Dr. Weliweriya to create 3D physics lessons. Additionally, Michael holds the position of Mission Head for the NASA Micro-g NExT Challenge at Columbia Space Initiative, focusing on a Contact Sampling Device, while also contributing as an Engineer by developing an advanced camera system for a finalist project. Previous experience includes a Research Assistant role at Georgia Institute of Technology, specializing in robotic swarm mechanics under Prof. Daniel Goldman. Michael's academic background includes studies at Columbia University, Georgia Institute of Technology, and Peachtree Ridge High School.