Nelson Leon
Los Angeles
Summary
Graduate Electrical Engineer and researcher working on the Einstein Telescope (ET) gravitational-wave observatory. Experience in modeling, simulation, finite-element analysis, controls, cryogenic suspension systems, thermal-noise studies, and electrostatic actuation for next-generation gravitational-wave detectors. Contributed to technical reports, conference presentations, posters, and peer-reviewed publications supporting next-generation gravitational-wave detector technologies.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
Graduate Researcher
Einstein Telescope Collaboration / California State University
Los Angeles, California
08.2024 - Current
- Developed seismic transfer-function models for the Einstein Telescope Low-Frequency (ET-LF) cryogenic suspension system.
- Performed finite-element simulations and modal analyses using COMSOL Multiphysics.
- Characterized cryogenic suspension resonances, including pitch, yaw, roll, pendulum, and blade-dominated modes.
- Investigated thermal-noise mitigation strategies, seismic isolation performance, and anti-spring concepts for next-generation gravitational-wave detectors.
- Developed electrostatic actuator models for lock acquisition, observation-mode operation, and suspension control applications.
- Performed RMS motion analyses and sensor dynamic-range studies for local interferometric sensing systems.
- Authored and co-authored technical reports, conference posters, and collaboration presentations within the Einstein Telescope Collaboration.
- Contributed to peer-reviewed publications supporting cryogenic suspension design, vibration isolation, and gravitational-wave detector technologies.
- Mentored and provided technical guidance to a multidisciplinary senior design team working on Einstein Telescope suspension-related studies.
Education
Master of Science - Electrical Engineering
California State University
Los Angeles, California06-2026
Bachelor of Engineering - Electrical & Electronics Engineering
California State University
Los Angeles, California05-2024
Skills
- Programming
- Python
- MATLAB
- Simulation & Modeling
- COMSOL Multiphysics
- Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
- Systems Modeling
- Engineering
- Control Systems
- Transfer Function Analysis
- Thermal Analysis
- Vibration Analysis
- Scientific Computing
- Cryogenic Systems
- Technical writing
SELECTED PUBLICATIONS & TECHNICAL REPORTS
- Cryogenic Test Mass Suspension Techniques Operating in Compression for Third-Generation Gravitational Wave Detectors (2025)
- Seismic Response, RMS Performance, and Modal Analysis of the ET-LF Cryogenic Suspension (ET-0267A-26)
- Pitch and Yaw Resonances in the ET-LF Cryogenic Suspension (ET-001A-26)
- Analysis of the Resonant Modes Present in a Novel Cryogenic Test Mass Suspension (ET-0045A-25)
- Electrostatic Actuation for the Einstein Telescope: Requirements and Feasibility (GWADW 2026 Poster)
Websites
Timeline
Graduate Researcher
Einstein Telescope Collaboration / California State University
08.2024 - Current
Bachelor of Engineering - Electrical & Electronics Engineering
California State University
Master of Science - Electrical Engineering
California State University