Stephen Lawson

Hello, I'm Stephen

I'm a Python developer with a focus on automation, web development, and data analysis. With a background in both biology and technology, I bring a unique perspective to solving complex problems through code.

Currently working as a Python Developer at INADEV, I develop enterprise solutions and implement best practices in software development. My journey into programming began in laboratory settings, where I created custom tools to streamline research workflows and analyze experimental data.

I'm passionate about creating efficient, elegant solutions that make processes more streamlined and user-friendly. Whether it's automating repetitive tasks, building web applications, or analyzing complex datasets, I enjoy the challenge of finding the right approach for each unique problem.

Professional Experience

SOFTWARE ENGINEER – PYTHON DEVELOPER

INADEV

Remote

Nov 2022 - Mar 2025

  • Designed, developed, and implemented Python-based enterprise solutions in collaboration with a cross-functional Agile team, ensuring client requirements were met efficiently.
  • Coordinated with team members to follow best practices, plan work, and communicate progress to clients.
  • Supported quality development practices, including test-driven development, to ensure the reliability and robustness of software solutions.
  • Actively participated in improving the codebase through code reviews and adherence to Agile principles.
  • Evaluated technical effort for implementing client requirements and contributed to the creation and sizing of user stories.
  • Contributed to system design documentation and procedures.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in object-oriented methodologies, design patterns, and microservices architecture.
Skills & Technologies:
Web Development Django Python Git Automation RESTful APIs

AUTOMATION SPECIALIST & SCIENTIST

PPD

Richmond, VA

Jan 2021 - Nov 2022

  • Developed Python-Selenium based scripts to automate web application data entry, reducing errors and saving time
  • Created standalone graphical user interfaces (GUIs) with Python-Tkinter and PyInstaller for laboratory workflows
  • Built Python file system crawler to automate team member training verification
  • Scraped export PDFs with Python and visualized lab instrument usage data using Seaborn
  • Developed custom Python scripts to automate complex daily sample controls calculations
  • Gained experience with scripting for and operating Hamilton Star and Tecan Evo liquid handling automation platforms
Skills & Technologies:
Web Automation Data Processing File System Operations MySQL SQLite Django Flask Pandas NumPy Matplotlib Seaborn Selenium Python Git Automation Data Analysis

LABORATORY SPECIALIST

Virginia Commonwealth University

Richmond, VA

Dec 2019 - Jan 2021

  • Utilized Python-OpenCV library to create custom computer vision software for tracking different color rodents.
  • Implemented Raspberry Pi and near IR PiCam with custom Python scripts to observe and record lab rodent behavior.
Skills & Technologies:
Computer Vision OpenCV Python Raspberry Pi

Education & Certifications

Academic Background

B.S. in Biology

Virginia Commonwealth University

2015 - 2019

Graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. Coursework included programming for Computer Science and Engineering Majors (Python-based).

Certifications & Courses

Google IT Automation with Python Professional

Google

June 2022

Professional certificate covering Python programming, automation, troubleshooting, and debugging. Includes using Python to interact with the operating system, IT infrastructure services, and cloud computing.

Python Novice to Pythonista

Skillsoft

September 2021

Advanced Python programming certificate covering best practices, design patterns, and professional development techniques.

Programming for Computer Science & Engineering Majors I

Virginia Commonwealth University

May 2019

Python-based coursework covering programming fundamentals, data structures, and algorithms.

Beyond Coding

When I'm not coding, you can find me pursuing my passion for photography. As a professional photographer, I run a photography business specializing in portraiture and events that you can check out at stephen.photography.

I also enjoy exploring the outdoors, experimenting with new recipes, and continuously learning about new technologies and scientific advancements.

I believe that diverse interests and experiences contribute to a more creative and holistic approach to problem-solving in technology.

Like what you see?

I'm always open to discussing new projects or opportunities.

Get in Touch