Mario Souza
About Mario Souza
Mario Souza is a Staff Data Systems Engineer currently working at Lightmatter in the San Francisco Bay Area. He has a diverse background in data management and photonics, having held various roles at companies such as Aeva and PsiQuantum, and has an extensive academic background in physics and engineering.
Work at Lightmatter
Mario Souza currently serves as a Staff Data Systems Engineer at Lightmatter, a position he has held since 2024. His role involves leveraging his expertise in data systems to enhance operational efficiency within the organization. Lightmatter focuses on developing advanced technologies that integrate optics and computing, aligning with Mario's background in photonics and data management.
Previous Experience at Aeva
Before joining Lightmatter, Mario worked at Aeva as the Data Platform Lead from 2021 to 2023. In this role, he developed a comprehensive data platform that facilitated data ingestion, parameter extraction, and analytics, which are crucial for decision-making processes in manufacturing. He also served as the Manager of Data Platforms for a brief period in 2023, further solidifying his expertise in data systems.
Education and Expertise
Mario Souza holds a PhD in Physics from Universidade Estadual de Campinas, which he completed from 2013 to 2017. He also earned a Bachelor's degree in Physics from the same institution from 2007 to 2012. Additionally, he studied Laser and Optical Engineering at Institut d'Optique Graduate School, obtaining a Diplôme d'Ingénieur from 2010 to 2012. His educational background supports his transition from a photonics specialist to a data management expert.
Background in Research and Engineering
Mario has a diverse background in research and engineering. He worked as a Graduate Research Assistant at the University of Campinas from 2013 to 2017 and as a Visiting Graduate Researcher at the University of California, San Diego from 2016 to 2017. His experience also includes roles as a Photonics Engineer and Data Systems Lead at PsiQuantum, where he contributed to the development of data systems and photonics technologies.
Career Transition and Focus
Mario transitioned from a focus on photonics to data management, emphasizing the integration of modern data systems into high-tech hardware startups. His passion lies in creating systematic solutions for complex challenges, which enhances operational efficiency in the organizations he works with.