Student Information
Graduate StudentComputer Science
Ira A Fulton Engineering
I’m an MS in Computer Science student at Arizona State University (Spring 2026) and a former Technology Solutions Consultant at Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), where I worked in Professional Services (Global Competency Center) within the Cloud Platform Application Engineering team.
At HPE, I supported cloud and automation initiatives with a focus on AI for cybersecurity and self-service delivery. I contributed to HPE SQuest, a customer self-service portal built on Ansible/AWX, enabling “Everything-as-a-Service (EaaS)” workflows through automation, standardized job templates, and repeatable operations.
My technical foundation includes Python, Linux, Ansible, and applied ML/NLP concepts. Beyond industry work, I enjoy translating emerging research into practical systems. I’ve published and presented research across AI/ML, NLP, and cybersecurity, including a paper that received a Best Paper Award (IEEE MRTM 2023), and I’ve delivered a lightning talk on quantum computing & cryptography.
I’m currently seeking internship/co-op opportunities in cybersecurity, AI security, cloud automation, or ML-driven security engineering, where I can build secure, scalable systems and ship measurable impact.
Degrees
- Master of Science (M.S.) in Computer Science, Arizona State University (Current)
Professional Certifications & Licensures
- Quantum Computing
- Certificate for Quantum Algorithms for Cybersecurity, Chemistry, and Optimization (MIT xPRO)
- Introduction to Quantum Computing (MIT xPRO)
- Systems & Cloud Infrastructure
- A Beginner's Guide to Linux Kernel Development - LFD103 (The Linux Foundation)
- Introduction to Cloud 101 (AWS Educate)
- Cybersecurity & Compliance
- ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Certification
- Management & Professional Strategy
- Foundations of Project Management Certification (Google)
- Achieving Personal and Professional Success Specialization (University of Pennsylvania)
Artificial Intelligence, Agentic AI, Python, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity
Peer-Reviewed Conferences & Journals
- Acoustic Horizons: Low-Latency Assistive Navigation Systems
- Venue: IEEE International Conference on Emerging Technologies in Computer Science for Interdisciplinary Applications (ICETCS) - To be published 2025
- Abstract: This paper introduces an innovative wearable lightweight, wireless headset designed to assist visually impaired individuals in navigating their environment more effectively and safely. The device aims to address common challenges faced by this demographic, including obstacle detection and spatial orientation, thereby enhancing their ability to move independently and confidently in various settings using 2 low powered esp32 camera modules which provide live, low-latency video feeds to the respective YOLOv8 model based on the scene which act as an extremely low cost alternative to AI cameras which are orders of magnitude more expensive.
- Detection of Bank Transaction Anomalies using Gradient Boosted Federated Learning
- Venue: Submitted to IEEE Access (Under review to address reviewer comments)
- Abstract: The advent of the internet has brought forth a new era in digital technology. This has revolutionized many businesses and sectors particularly banking and retail. Although this transformation has solved many problems and created numerous opportunities, it has also given rise to many challenges, the foremost being security. The increase in fraudulent transactions has been a major concern for both banks and customers. While customers are at risk of losing their savings, fraudulent transactions negatively affect the reputation of retail banks. The accurate and timely detection of bank transactions as fraudulent ranks among the most critical challenges confronting the banking sector. This study aims to research and introduce two novel machine learning techniques to address this pressing challenge. We leveraged the decentralized capabilities of the Federated Learning framework to bolster data security and privacy while analyzing sensitive and confidential data from banking transactions. What sets our methods apart is the strategic application of federated learning with gradient-boosting algorithms, celebrated for their adeptness in managing significantly imbalanced datasets. This innovative approach not only enhances our ability to detect anomalies in banking transactions but also minimizes false positives and achieves greater accuracy. The outcome of our research shows that by adopting these techniques, we can mitigate data privacy concerns and achieve significant improvements in both the detection of anomalies and the efficiency of the process. Thus, it paves the way for a transformative impact of this method in the realm of contemporary online banking security.
- Mental Health in the Digital Era-NLP Models for Depression and Suicidal Tendency Detection
- Venue: Fifth International Conference on Computing and Network Communications (CoCoNet'23) - To be published in Springer Lecture Notes in Electrical Engineering Proceedings of CoCoNet 2023, Volume 2 in Jan 2025
- Abstract: The advent of Natural Language Processing (NLP) as a novel technology, especially with the integration of the BERT (Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers) model, presents a transformative approach in addressing mental health issues in today’s digital landscape. BERT’s advanced capabilities in understanding the context and nuances of language enable more accurate detection of mental health concerns, including depression and suicidal tendencies, in user-generated text. This exploration presents an in-depth exploration of a cutting-edge NLP-based model designed to detect signs of mental health issues, depression, and suicidal tendencies in user-generated text. The authors emphasise the importance of leveraging the advancements in AI and machine learning for early detection of mental health issues. We introduce a novel approach using NLP models, distinguishing it from the traditional machine learning models that are commonly employed. The end goal is to facilitate better intervention methods, offering a more comprehensive view of an individual’s mental well-being, especially when a vast majority of communication has shifted to digital platforms.
- PyEdit Pro: The Ultimate Advanced Text Editor in Python - Empowering Text Editing Experience
- Venue: IEEE International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research in Technology and Management (MRTM) 2023 - To be published in IEEE XPlore in Jan 2025. (Recipient of the Best Paper Award)
- Abstract: In today's fast-paced digital world, text editors have become more than just tools; they're essential for a wide range of professional and creative tasks. From coding to content writing, the versatility of these editors is remarkable. In our exploration, we dive into the creation of a cutting-edge text editor using Python, a language known for its flexibility and power. This research unpacks the core principles of design, highlighting the features and techniques that are crucial in building a robust and user-friendly editor. Key areas like interface design, text manipulation, syntax highlighting, and plugin support are thoroughly examined. We also shine a light on the complexities and challenges encountered during development, offering insights that are particularly useful for Python enthusiasts and developers. Lastly, the paper ventures into potential future research directions in this ever-evolving field, inviting further innovation and exploration.
Industry White Papers & Technical Reports
- Detecting Malicious Activities and Behavorial Analysis of Runtime Containers
- Venue: HPE Parasparam 2024
- Limited Technical Description: I contributed to designing and implementing an innovative container security solution that integrates Falco Sidekick with a custom web UI and Slack plugin for real-time alerting. My work focused on developing the web UI, configuring Slack integration, and streamlining deployment, enabling comprehensive monitoring and immediate incident response. This solution, validated in controlled environments, enhances the security posture of runtime containers.
- Securing Large Language Models
- Venue: HPE Parasparam 2024
- Limited Technical Description: In the white paper 'Securing Large Language Models,' I contributed to developing a comprehensive security framework that identifies and mitigates vulnerabilities in LLMs, such as adversarial attacks and data breaches. My work involved simulating cybersecurity scenarios in a controlled environment and implementing robust defense mechanisms, including encryption and anomaly detection, aligned with international standards like NIST and ISO.
My research focuses on the intersection of AI/ML Engineering and Systems, with an emphasis on building secure, scalable, and applied machine learning architectures. I am particularly interested in translating emerging AI research into practical, robust systems for cybersecurity, cloud automation, and high-performance applications.
My active research pipeline spans several key domains:
- ML-Driven Security & Privacy: Leveraging gradient-boosted Federated Learning to detect financial anomalies while preserving data privacy, and developing robust defense mechanisms for Large Language Models (LLMs) against adversarial attacks.
- Systems & Cloud Security: Designing and implementing real-time behavioral analysis and threat detection solutions for runtime containers using tools like Falco and custom integrations.
- Applied AI for Accessibility & Health: Designing lightweight, low-latency computer vision systems (YOLOv8 via ESP32 modules) for visually impaired navigation, and deploying advanced NLP models (BERT) for the early detection of mental health crises in digital environments.
- Software Systems Engineering: Architecting robust software tools, including advanced Python-based text editors with optimized text manipulation and plugin architectures.
- Mitra Award | Youth For Seva (YFS) | September 2024
Youth for Seva Mitra Award for the commitment and dedication in community volunteering for over 50 hours of service. - Best New Joinee | Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) July 2024
Best Performer: Best New Joinee Award at HPE Rewards and Recognition Event - Distinction Award Certificate | PES University | 2023 & 2024
Scholarship Award for Academic Excellence in Undergraduate Degree. - Best Paper Award | IEEE MRTM Conference | September 2023
Won Best Paper Award for the Research Paper titled: "PyEdit Pro- The Ultimate Advanced Text Editor in Python - Empowering Text Editing Experience"
Educational Outreach & Mentorship
- Teaching Volunteer, Youth for Seva (2023 – Present)
- Trained 8th-grade students at GHPS Palace Guttahalli for the National Means Cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMS) exam.
- English Teacher, U&I Trust (2023 – Present)
- Taught English to underprivileged children as part of Project Kanasu.
Community Leadership & Fundraising
- Fundraising Leader, U&I Trust (2024)
- Served in a leadership role for an annual Pan-India crowdfunding campaign that successfully raised ₹1.76 crores.
- Event Volunteer, Youth for Seva (2023 – 2024)
- Facilitated Chiguru 2024, an annual carnival empowering underprivileged children to showcase their talents.
Humanitarian Relief
- Resource Mobilization Volunteer, Indian Development Foundation (2016 – 2017)
- Child Advocacy Volunteer, SOS Children's Villages of India (2011)
Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) | Technical Solutions Consultant (Sep 2024 – May 2025) Served in the Professional Services Global Competency Center within the Cloud Platform Application Engineering team. Engineered Services Delivery Accelerators for HPE Squest, a framework built on the Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform to deliver a comprehensive Everything-as-a-Service (EaaS) web portal. Designed and implemented AI-driven cybersecurity workflows utilizing the NVIDIA Morpheus Pipeline.
Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) | Technical Solutions Consultant Intern (Feb 2024 – Aug 2024) Developed a Python-backed firewall migration tool and designed use-cases for SBOM generation and vulnerability scanning using Anchore tools. Conducted automated vulnerability analysis utilizing OWASP Nettacker and competed in the HPE Secure Coding Tournament. Recognized with the Best New Joiner Award for the Cloud Platform and Cybersecurity Team.
Sattva Human | Cybersecurity & AI Intern (Jan 2024 – Feb 2024) Deployed on-site at Hewlett Packard Enterprise as part of the RPS Cybersecurity team to develop a framework enhancing Application Security (AppSec) assessments. Ensured AI security standards by evaluating and integrating GPT-4 LLM models into enterprise workflows.