Josh Dafoe, PhD in Computer Science, 2026
In the summer of 2022, I joined the MTU Security and Privacy Lab as an undergraduate researcher. During my undergraduate studies in Mathematics and Computer Science, I was grateful for the opportunity to work on a few different research projects. These projects were centered around using trusted hardware to solve critical security challenges. In particular, we modified the firmware of flash storage devices (called the flash translation layer (FTL)) to support ransomware recovery. Additionally, we use a trusted execution environment in collaboration with the FTL to protect against an untrusted operating system, enabling secure data restoration in the decentralized cloud and software repair on in-vehicle computers.
As I have begun my PhD studies this past year, I am working on a new challenge: designing a new FTL that is programmable while remaining secure. This would allow new FTL techniques to be adopted more easily, with increased co-design along the entire storage stack. Receiving the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship will give me the opportunity to pursue my research with fewer constraints and stronger support.
I am grateful to my research advisor, Dr. Bo Chen, for his guidance over the past few years. His support, openness, and insight have been instrumental in my growth as a researcher. I am also thankful for the professors who have encouraged me throughout my studies and the opportunities Michigan Tech has provided.