Andrew MacDonald

Andrew MacDonald is currently an AI Specialist at Mission Control Space Services Inc. Prior to this, they worked as a Staff Research Scientist (Machine Learning) at MDA from December 2017 to October 2021. In this role, they were the deep learning lead on projects involving object detection, classification, and tracking in remote sensing imagery. Andrew also developed algorithms including convolutional neural networks, autoencoders, and learning approaches such as reinforcement, semi-supervised, and inexact learning. Andrew was the technical lead and contributor on CSA STDP, DRDC IDEaS, and DRDC DIRPs programs.

Before their time at MDA, Andrew worked as a Nanoscience Visiting Researcher at IBM from July 2015 to December 2015. During this time, they developed a novel, single-atom magnetic sensing technique with applications in quantum computing and nanotechnology. Prior to IBM, Andrew worked as a PhD Researcher in Quantum Materials at The University of British Columbia from September 2012 to September 2017. Andrew also worked as an NSERC USRA Research Assistant at University of Waterloo from April 2010 to August 2010. Andrew's first professional role was as a Thermal Qualifications Facility Assistant at Canadian Space Agency | Agence spatiale canadienne from September 2009 to December 2009.

Andrew MacDonald has a PhD in Nanotechnology and Condensed Matter from The University of British Columbia. Andrew also has a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Mathematical Physics Co-op, Astrophysics Specialization from University of Waterloo. In addition, they have three certifications: LinkedIn in AI in Business Essential Training, LinkedIn in The Six Morning Habits of High Performers, and Coursera in Deep Neural Networks with PyTorch.

Andrew MacDonald reports to Michele Faragalli, CTO. They are on a team with Jacob Prud'Homme - Junior Software Engineer, Samara Pillay - AI Specialist, and Matt Cross - Senior Systems Engineer.