David Purcell
Lakewood,CO
Summary
Dynamic graduate student research assistant with expertise in systems engineering and project management at the Colorado School of Mines. Conducted lunar deployment research and enhanced technology readiness through innovative mechanical test rig designs. Proven ability to collaborate effectively and troubleshoot complex issues, driving impactful results in multidisciplinary teams.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Graduate Student Research Assistant
Colorado School of Mines
Golden, CO
01.2020 - Current
- Conducted research on mechanical aerospace systems for lunar surface deployment.
- Maintained lunar testbed for validating terramechanic and structural equipment.
- Designed and constructed mechanical test rigs to elevate technology readiness level testing.
- Led systems engineering for multiple NASA and NSF funded grants and programs.
- Collaborated with scientists, engineers, and regulators to plan and review projects.
- Utilized advanced technical skills to troubleshoot complex issues and implement solutions.
Nuclear Machinist Mate
United States Navy, USN
Ballston Spa, NY
10.2011 - 12.2013
Coordinated with engineering teams to execute complex machinery overhauls and repairs.
- Installed new components or replaced parts on machinery for nuclear power generation.
- Monitored and adjusted boilers, turbines, wells, and auxiliary equipment to ensure consistent plant operations.
Education
Ph.D. - Space Resources
Colorado School of Mines
Golden, CO05-2025
Bachelor of Science - Geoscience
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT08-2019
Associate of Applied Science - Geospatial Technology
Salt Lake Community College
Salt Lake City, UT08-2013
Skills
- Systems engineering
- Lunar deployment
- Geospatial analysis
- Data visualization
- Research methodologies
- Project management
Affiliations
- Team lead for the CSM NASA Big Idea 2021 Dust Mitigation team - Blanket Design, deployment, and anchoring.
- Systems Engineering lead for the CSM NASA Big Ideas 2023 Lunar Forge team.
- Undergraduate advisor for the Mines Lunabotics team.
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Graduate Student Research Assistant
Colorado School of Mines
01.2020 - Current
Nuclear Machinist Mate
United States Navy, USN
10.2011 - 12.2013
Ph.D. - Space Resources
Colorado School of Mines
Bachelor of Science - Geoscience
University of Utah
Associate of Applied Science - Geospatial Technology
Salt Lake Community College
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