David Rodrigo Bäcker Peral

Saxena Lab

New Haven, CT

Studying the underlying neural computations involved in cooperation by connecting the behavior of real rats in a cooperative task with virtual agents behavior in a virtual environment using multi-agent reinforcement learning. Work included building a behavioral analysis pipeline in python using pose-estimation data to study cooperative behaviors and strategies, as well as building and running simulations in our constructed RL environment.

Anderson Lab

Pasadena, CA

Developed the software for an open source non-invasive, low-cost thermal-camera setup to study the relationship between the optogenetic stimulation of various emotional states and body temperature in mice. Conducted the experimental analysis discovering that mice are in fact “hot-headed” and that aggression is correlated with increased body temperatures. CADed an attachment and programmed a custom miniature camera for a setup that enables us to accurately record the facial expressions in freely-behaving mice for the first time.

NASA STEM Enhancement Intern

Compared deep-learning models for mosquito-larvae classification and helped build an optical experiment for testing in microgravity through the SEES program.

First Tech Challenge Team Captain

La Cañada Flintridge, CA

Led a 15-member robotics team, bringing mechanical design, programming, and teamwork together through the process of building and competing.