Der-You Kao

Der-you Kao is a highly experienced technical professional specializing in system engineering and scientific software development, with a focus on optical modeling and quantum chemistry. Currently, as a Technical Professional at KBR, Inc., Der-you is involved in diffraction modeling of a coronagraph for the Habitable World Observatory. Prior roles include Scientific Software Engineer at Genesis Engineering Solutions, Inc., where Der-you developed optical models and coded avionics for long-duration balloon missions. As a Visiting Assistant Research Scientist at the University of Maryland, Der-you led quantum chemistry simulations and contributed to mass spectrometry research. A former Postdoctoral Fellow at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Der-you implemented advanced quantum chemistry methods and collaborated on instrument design, while earlier research included work on self-interaction corrections to density functional theory and studies of electron-phonon interactions. Der-you holds a PhD in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from The George Washington University and advanced degrees in Electrical and Computer Engineering and Physics.