Transforming complex problems into practical solutions

Mark Lepage, Ph.D.
I am driven by technology, innovation, and real-world impact.
Grounded in mineral processing and flotation, I develop practical tools that turn complex process behaviour into measurable, actionable insight. My work spans sensors, data-driven systems, and process analytics, with a focus on bridging the gap between scientific research and real-world industrial application.
I am most energized by building innovative solutions that make complex systems easier to understand, measure, and improve.
Education
Doctor of Philosophy
Mining and Materials Engineering
- Thesis topic involved the development of sensors for characterizing the froth zone in flotation under the supervision of Professor Kristian E. Waters.
- Teaching experience through numerous Teaching Assistant positions.
Bachelor of Engineering
Chemical Engineering with Distinction
Experience
Founder
- Founded Flotation Metrics to develop practical gas dispersion measurement tools and diagnostic services for mineral processing operations.
- Lead development of flotation measurement systems, including sensor platforms, automated test apparatuses, and data-analysis workflows.
- Work with industrial clients to translate flotation measurements into actionable process insights.
Postdoctoral Researcher
Mining and Materials Engineering
- Applying gas dispersion research to industrial flotation plants.
- My research focuses on applying gas dispersion characterization techniques to industrial flotation systems.
Flotation Researcher
- Conceptualizing and executing research projects in the domain of flotation and mineral processing.
- Applying novel vision systems to industrial mineral processing plants.
- Developing novel gas dispersion sensors for conducting measurements at industrial flotation plants.
Process Engineer
- Ensured efficient operation of the Mosaic Colonsay potash processing plant with the Process Engineering department.
- Supported process engineering work across comminution, flotation, and product handling circuits.
Skills
Technical Skills
- Technical expert in flotation and gas dispersion with 10+ years of research and experience
Flotation
Sensor Design
Mineral Processing
Gas Dispersion
Languages
English (Native)
French – Oral
French – Written
Computers
- Proficient in Python, MATLAB, and C++ programming, applied in developing hardware-software systems, ex.:
- Flotation froth camera (image processing, data analysis)
- McGill Bubble Size Analyzer (image processing, data analysis)
- McGill FrothSight (hardware control, data acquisition, analysis)
- Experienced with networking and device connectivity (IP configuration, device integration, MQTT, REST APIs, Websockets)
- Experience in deploying web frameworks (Docker, Flask, React, NGINX)
Python
MATLAB
JavaScript
C++
LaTeX
HTML & CSS
Swift
KiCAD
Fusion360
Excel & VBA
Git
WordPress
Advanced Data Analysis
- Skilled in databases: NoSQL (ex. MongoDB, InfluxDB) and SQL (ex. PostgreSQL, MySQL)
- Application of statistical and machine learning techniques (PyTorch), ex.:
- Multivariate analysis and regression (PLS, PCA, linear/nonlinear models)
- Anomaly detection in image and timeseries data
- Experienced with timeseries analysis, process modeling, and visualization (Pandas, NumPy, SciPy, Matplotlib, LaTeX)
- Proficient in mathematical modeling and numerical methods
Data Analysis
Machine Learning and AI
Image Processing
Numerical Simulations
Report Writing
Big Data
Prototyping
- Proficient at taking ideas from concept to working prototype
- Mechanical:
- 3D modelling (Fusion 360), 3D printing, design
- Electronics:
- Circuit design and PCB development (KiCAD, ESP32, microcontrollers)
- Rapid prototyping, wiring, system integration, and in-field troubleshooting
Sensor Design
Programming
Circuit Design
KiCAD
Fusion360
Hardware design
3D Printing
PCB Design
Software Design
Leadership
- Founder & Technical Lead of Flotation Metrics, leading product development and commercialization strategy
- President of the Mining and Materials Graduate Engineering Student Association (2016-2017)
- Experience supervising and mentoring interns, implementing Agile workflows for software development
- Team leadership through coaching sports teams and coordinating multidisciplinary research projects
Project Coordination
Team Management
Communication
Strategic Planning
Organization
Want to get in touch?
Let’s talk about what you’re building.