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 build practical tools that turn complex process behavior into measurable, actionable information. I thrive on building innovative tools. From sensors to data-driven systems, my work bridges the gap between scientific research and industrial application.
I specialize in developing practical measurement tools for flotation systems, with a focus on gas dispersion, frother behaviour, bubble size, froth behavior, and process diagnostics. My work combines mineral processing expertise, sensor development, and industrial field experience to help operations better understand and optimize their flotation circuits.
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 Teacher 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
Orginization
Want to get in touch?
Let’s talk about what you’re building.