Hi, I’m Robert Vava, a cross-disciplinary Research Engineer with expertise in machine learning, data science, and software architecture. I specialize in building end-to-end machine learning systems, leading technical teams, and creating innovative solutions from scratch. I enjoy collaborating with scientists and engineers to bring complex academic and engineering projects to life. With experience in embedded systems, machine learning research, and consultancy, I’m passionate about applying AI and software engineering to solve real-world problems in diverse sectors. I’m always eager to learn, mentor, and contribute to impactful projects that push the boundaries of technology.

Robert Vava

Hi, I’m Robert Vava, a cross-disciplinary Research Engineer with expertise in machine learning, data science, and software architecture. I specialize in building end-to-end machine learning systems, leading technical teams, and creating innovative solutions from scratch. I enjoy collaborating with scientists and engineers to bring complex academic and engineering projects to life. With experience in embedded systems, machine learning research, and consultancy, I’m passionate about applying AI and software engineering to solve real-world problems in diverse sectors. I’m always eager to learn, mentor, and contribute to impactful projects that push the boundaries of technology.

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Robert Vava, a cross-disciplinary Research Engineer with expertise in machine learning, data science, and software architecture. I specialize in building end-to-end machine learning systems, leading technical teams, and creating innovative solutions from scratch. I enjoy collaborating with scientists and engineers to bring complex academic and engineering projects to life.

With experience in embedded systems, machine learning research, and consultancy, I’m passionate about applying AI and software engineering to solve real-world problems in diverse sectors. I’m always eager to learn, mentor, and contribute to impactful projects that push the boundaries of technology.

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Experience Level

Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Beginner
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Language

English
Fluent
Romanian, Moldavian, Moldovan
Fluent
German
Intermediate

Work Experience

Machine Learning Research Engineer at Burke Weill-Cornell Institute
July 31, 2025 - July 21, 2025
Built an optimized NoSQL system designed to streamline the processing, storage, and utilization of multi-session neuronal spike data. Improved neuron tracking accuracy through a modified transformer model, graph algorithms, mathematical insights, and breakdown studies. Acted as the main codebase and data manager for a team of 7 scientists and engineers, delivering robust MLOps and software architecture.
Machine Learning, Embedded, and Software Engineering Consultant at Freelance
September 1, 2024 - Present
Developed embedded systems (Jetson, Arduino, TI mmWave) for traffic analysis and control with tinyML for Streetwise Technology. Delivered software engineering & LLMOps for backend integrations, data extraction, and synthesis of pharma research for Camino. Developed LLM-based web scraping agents and combined graph algorithms, embeddings, and prompt engineering for matching researcher profiles with grants database for Asothia. Founding engineer at Civita, building full stack and LLM apps for social impact clients.
Data Scientist (Election Cycle) at The Labour Party
July 31, 2024 - July 21, 2025
Developed a machine learning system that increased supporter reach-out donations and volunteering ROI by 13x. Delivered data science reports, dashboards, and backend applications under tight deadlines. Used technologies including Python, Plotly, SHAP, Sk-learn, PostgreSQL, Heroku, AWS, and PyTorch.
Data Scientist at Decoded
April 30, 2024 - July 21, 2025
Enhanced decision-making processes of financial, scientific, and FMCG companies by training and deploying predictive models. Created an internal automation tool using C++, Python, JavaScript, and AppleScript to reduce operational redundancies by 25%. Instructed and mentored Level 4 industry apprentices in Data Analyst and Software Engineering programmes.
Graduate Teaching Assistant at University of Sussex, Engineering and Informatics
September 1, 2023 - July 21, 2025
Delivered workshops, labs, and marking for modules in mathematics, computer vision, machine learning, and dynamical systems. Assembled and programmed robots and scientific simulations for department activities and research.
Research Engineer (Neurotechnology) at Imperial College London, Bioengineering
February 28, 2021 - July 21, 2025
Conducted research on multi-kernel machine learning models for anomaly detection in multimodal (EEG, PET, MRI) TBI datasets.
Visiting Researcher at Robert Steiner MRI Unit, Imperial College London
April 30, 2020 - July 21, 2025
Co-authored a high impact systematic review and meta-analysis of studies measuring neurometabolite levels in psychosis patients.

Education

MSc at University of Sussex
September 1, 2021 - September 1, 2023
BSc at University College London
September 1, 2017 - August 31, 2020

Qualifications

Introduction to Molecular Spectroscopy
January 11, 2030 - July 21, 2025
Backend Developer Professional Certificate
January 11, 2030 - July 21, 2025
Introduction to Computer Science (Harvard CS50x)
January 11, 2030 - July 21, 2025
Mathematics for Engineering
January 11, 2030 - July 21, 2025

Industry Experience

Software & Internet, Healthcare, Life Sciences, Education, Government

Experience Level

Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Beginner
See more