ABOUT ZIRULAB
Connecting a research background with software development
ZIRULAB is run independently by Dr. Jiang Zi-Ru and focuses on research software, data analysis, model automation and practical tool development.
Years of research and technical work mean I care not only about whether the code runs, but also about where the data comes from, how results are verified, whether users can reproduce them reliably, and how a tool actually fits into the workflow.
Main skills
Tool and web development with Python, OpenCV, Flask / Next.js and more
Research data cleaning, statistical analysis, batch processing and result visualisation
Automating APSIM and other model runs, parameter sweeps and result organisation
Excel / VBA, Word, PDF and internal document workflow improvement
Windows software packaging, user interfaces and delivery documentation
Working principles
Assess first, then build: When proven existing tools can solve the problem, I recommend them first.
Prototype first, then expand: Complex projects start with the most important function that can be verified, rather than piling up requirements at once.
Results can be checked: Inputs, outputs and acceptance criteria are defined; the goal is never something that only “looks smart” but cannot be verified.
Protecting data and boundaries: Client data, internal material and unauthorised project content are never published.
Start with one concrete problem
Explaining how you work now and what result you want matters more than preparing a complex requirements document.
Project inquiry