About Me
I'm Akshith, a PhD student in Computer Science at Oregon State University, advised by Dr. Rakesh Bobba and Dr. Yeongjin Jang. My research focuses on improving the reliability and security of critical systems — Linux Kernel, certificate authorities and firmware that powers embedded platforms.
I'm also a part of the OSU Security Club and a long-time member of the OSUSEC CTF team. Competing in Capture the Flag competitions has been an incredible journey — including making it to the DEFCON CTF finals in 2022.
Before starting my PhD, I was the Founding Developer at Simpl, where I helped take the product from concept to one of India's largest fintech platforms. I've also collaborated with MIT Media Lab’s Computational Law group on early explorations of decentralized governance and digital societies.
I currently live in Portland, Oregon, but I’m originally from The Nilgiris (Blue Mountains) in South India — a place that deeply shaped my love for nature and thoughtfully built communities.
Outside of research and engineering, I enjoy being outdoors — backpacking, trail running, and swimming — and I have a soft spot for thoughtfully designed tools and the DIY culture.