Mark Eschbach

Data Analyst & Software Developer

Champaign, Illinois, United States

Summary

Versatile data analyst and software developer with a strong foundation in scientific research, data processing, and software engineering. Experienced in developing data capture and analysis tools using Python, Flutter, SQL, and Excel, optimizing processes to enhance efficiency. Proficient in database design, AI integration, and analytical techniques to derive insights from complex datasets. Passionate about leveraging interdisciplinary skills in data science and software development to solve real-world problems and drive innovation.

Experience

Plasma Chemistry Research Supervisor

Prairie Research Institute | October 2025 - Present (3 months)

Champaign, Illinois, United States

  • Developed Python-based plasma simulation tools
  • Developed strategic plans for plasma-based projects, incorporating data analysis for optimization.
  • Conducted hands-on research, optimizing parameters using data-driven approaches to improve efficiency and scalability.
  • Provided project management, including timeline coordination and data documentation.

Co-Founder

Epistemion LLC | September 2025 - Present (4 months)

Champaign, Illinois, United States

  • Knowledge-driven solutions, involving software development and data management.
  • Focusing on artificail intelligence (LLM), machine learning, and app development

Consulting Specialist, Analytical Chemistry

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | February 2025 - Present (11 months)

Springfield, Illinois, United States

  • Optimized pilot testing lab for DEO Grant, validating analytical methods and ensuring data accuracy through software tools.
  • Led team to streamline operations, achieving efficient workflows with data analysis and reporting.
  • Conducted testing, analyzed results, and generated reports aligned with real-time data.

Scientific Specialist

Illinois Sustainable Technology Center | August 2022 - Present (3 years 5 months)

Urbana-Champaign Area

  • Led project management for operational overhauls, developing a comprehensive multi-platform software suite for statewide water treatment program.
  • Created Excel and SQL tools for data capture, reporting, and analysis of water treatment operations.
  • Reduced reporting time by 50% for six users through dynamic Excel solutions.
  • Compiled and digitized historical data from 1970s to present, extracting and cleaning across formats to build a research database.
  • Developed internal database structure for data management and research.
  • Initiated and led development team for internal R&D projects involving software and data analytics.

Research Specialist

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | October 2019 - August 2022 (2 years 11 months)

United States

  • Assisted in biochemical research, performing data analysis on lipid molecules and protein metabolisms using Python and analytical software.
  • Managed lab data, including synthesis characterization and reporting for publications.

Education

  • Greenville College - Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry (2013 - 2015)
  • Parkland College - Associates Degree in Science, General Studies (2008 - 2012)
  • University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - Course, Plasma and Fusion Science (Jan 2025 - May 2025)
  • University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - Course, Modeling of Nuclear Energy Systems (Jan 2022 - May 2022)
  • University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - Course, Symbolic Logic (Aug 2023 - Dec 2023)
  • University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - Course, Early Modern Philosophy (Aug 2023 - Dec 2023)
  • University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - Course, Intro Differential Equations (Aug 2020 - Dec 2020)
  • University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - Course, Logic and Reasoning (Jan 2022 - Jun 2022)
  • edX - Fundamentals of Neuroscience Series (2018, Passed 85-87/100)