Eric J Ma's Website

In this blog post, I share my three-tier framework for multitasking with agent harnesses: one focused foreground task, one or two lightly supervised background tasks, and as many automated shadow tasks as you want. I explain how each tier works, how notifications keep you in control, and why a simple priority list is still essential. I also discuss how to move tasks down the chain for more effortless productivity. Curious how this system could help you multitask better without feeling overwhelmed?

In this blog post, I share my hands-on experience comparing three coding agent harnesses: Codex, cmux + OpenCode, and Cursor. I break down their features, workspace management, notification systems, automation capabilities, and open source status, highlighting what sets each apart. Curious which harness might boost your productivity or fit your workflow best? Read on to find out!

In this blog post, I reflect on co-teaching a BioIT World workshop about the value of standardizing data science workflows. I share stories from my experience at Moderna, discuss how to choose what to standardize, and highlight the importance of people and culture in making standards stick. I also touch on how evolving technology and AI are lowering the cost of standardization. Curious about where to start and how to get your team on board?

In this blog post, I reflect on the evolving role of data scientists in the age of AI and LLMs. I argue that our core mission remains rigorous measurement, not full-stack development. While AI tools make building easier, the real value comes from defining and evaluating what truly matters. I share why measurement should be led by those closest to the problem and how data scientists can best contribute. Are we losing sight of what makes data science essential in the rush to build with AI?

In this blog post, I share my experiment at ODSC East 2026, where I analyzed talk abstracts to uncover the conference's true zeitgeist. By categorizing sessions into five key zones—agentic AI systems, LLM engineering, data infrastructure, applied AI, and governance—I reveal how AI builder culture is evolving into systems culture. I also reflect on my own workshop experience and the shifting focus from models to repeatable systems. Curious about what trends are shaping the future of AI conferences?

In this blog post, I share my personal journey through AI-related burnout, the anxiety and exhaustion it brought, and the steps I took to recover—like changing my environment, reconnecting with family, and resetting my perspective on time and productivity. I also offer practical tips for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the relentless pace of AI work. Curious about how a week in London and some simple lifestyle changes helped me regain balance?

In this blog post, I share my experience benchmarking several LLMs using the new Marimo Pair skill for a data analysis task. I tested models like Claude Opus, Sonnet, GLM-5.1, and others, evaluating their performance, cost, and adherence to coding instructions. Some models excelled, while others struggled with basic requirements. Curious to see which models stood out and what lessons I learned from this experiment?

In this blog post, I reflect on how AI tools have accelerated my coding workflow but also made it more exhausting by collapsing my attention span and pushing me to juggle too many tasks at once. I explore why our brains are now the bottleneck, and share strategies for calibrating our work pace to match our neural capacity for sustainable productivity. How can we harness AI's power without burning out or losing focus?

I vibe-coded canvas-chat into existence in 48 hours, then spent weeks untangling the mess into a clean plugin architecture. The AI could execute my architectural vision, but it couldn't design it. This is the story of how I recovered from AI-generated slop — and why the architecture stays human.

In this blog post, I share practical ways to grow as a mentor and leader even when budgets are tight. Drawing from my experiences at Novartis and Moderna, I discuss strategies like one-on-one coaching, presenting at internal events, organizing communities of practice, and hosting informal gatherings—all without extra spending. I also offer advice for managers on supporting these efforts. Want to discover how you can foster career growth and mentorship, no matter the economic climate?