Software Engineer & Researcher
Maya Laidler
Computer Science & Astronomy
Vassar College '26
I build software at the intersection of data science and astrophysics. Currently researching galactic structure using machine learning, while developing applications that make a real impact.
About
Where Code Meets Cosmos
I'm a senior at Vassar College pursuing a double major in Computer Science and Astronomy. My work bridges computational methods with astrophysical research, using machine learning to understand the fundamental physics of galaxies.
From searching for technosignatures with the Berkeley SETI Research Center to building assistive technologies and multiplayer games, I thrive at the intersection of complex problems and elegant solutions. I've had the privilege of presenting my research at Oxford University and working with cutting-edge radio astronomy data.
When I'm not coding or analyzing galactic simulations, you can find me teaching as a Computer Science Coach, helping students master data structures and algorithms.
Education
Vassar College
BS in Computer Science & Astronomy • GPA: 3.76
Sept. 2022 – May 2026
Study Abroad
University of Edinburgh
Fall 2024
Temple University Japan
Spring 2025
Awards & Scholarships
- Benjamin Gilman Scholarship
- Thompson Bartlett Fellowship for Computer Science
- Tananbaum Fellowship
Experience
Research & Work
Research Assistant
Vassar College Department of Physics and Astronomy
Oct. 2023 – Present
Poughkeepsie, NY
- Senior Thesis Researcher investigating physical drivers of galactic structure using machine learning on 3D FLASH magnetohydrodynamic simulations
- Trained Ridge regression and Random Forest models using scikit-learn to predict parameter outcomes under varying turbulent gas velocity conditions
- Implementing neural network models in PyTorch to capture nonlinear relationships and compare with classical ML approaches
- Conducting independent simulation runs on the Midway Supercomputer, managing up to 2TB of data processing
Research Intern
Berkeley SETI Research Center, Breakthrough Listen Team
June 2024 – Aug. 2024
Berkeley, CA
- Designed and implemented Python-based pipelines to analyze high-resolution radio observations for technosignature detection
- Developed core radio astronomy data analysis skills with large-scale MeerKAT L-band datasets including signal processing and spectral analysis
- Reduced over 30,000 detections to 10 high-confidence technosignature candidates using statistical and feature-based methods
- Presented research findings at an invited lecture at Oxford University during Breakthrough Discuss 2024
Plant Engineering Intern
Amentum
June 2025 – Aug. 2025
Richland, WA
- Designed and deployed advanced Splunk dashboards ingesting and visualizing logs from 250 endpoints
- Built scalable, parameterized drilldowns using Splunk SPL and token-based queries for dynamic investigations
- Spearheaded Cortex XDR installation and testing across virtual machines
- Wrote robust, reusable scripts to automate software installation and system setup
Computer Science Coach
Vassar College CS Department
Jan. 2024 – Present
Poughkeepsie, NY
- Teaching Assistant for Data Structures and Algorithms and Theory of Computation courses (Java & OCaml)
- Conducting regular coaching hours, providing tutoring to an average of 30 students per week
Student Observer
The Class of 1951 Observatory
Oct. 2021 – June 2024
Poughkeepsie, NY
- Conducted astronomical observation, reducing data using Python for TESS exoplanet follow-up observations
- Operated a 32" telescope and hosted open nights for community outreach
Projects
Things I've Built
Stop the Cap
Local Multiplayer Game
Spring 2025
A real-time, turn-based web game inspired by Jackbox, enabling multiple players to join, respond, and vote through synchronized gameplay sessions.
- Built frontend using Vue.js with countdown timers, live chat, voting screens, and results pages
- Developed backend with Laravel (PHP Framework) with Herd and MySQL
OBRE
Object Detection App
Fall 2025
An assistive Android application that performs real-time object detection to aid visually impaired users.
- Integrated OpenCV for on-device image recognition
- Used Gemini API for contextual object descriptions and voice feedback
Eco-Track
Hackathon Top 3AI Sustainability Assistant
Fall 2025
An intelligent sustainability assistant leveraging Google Gemini APIs for real-time CO₂ monitoring and personalized carbon footprint analysis.
- Won top three in a Hackathon
- Integrated real-time sensor data for CO₂ detection and visualization
Skills
Technical Expertise
Languages
Machine Learning & Data Science
Technologies & Tools
Relevant Coursework
Computer Science
Astronomy & Physics
Contact
Let's Connect
I'm currently looking for new opportunities. Whether you have a question, want to discuss research, or just want to say hi, I'd love to hear from you!