CV
Jack Connor Vanlyssel
Education
- P.h.D. Computer Science, University of New Mexico, Expected 2028
- Focus in space system security
- M.S. Computer Science, University of New Mexico, Aug 2024 -Aug 2026
- 3.9 GPA
- Scholarship for Service student, Cyber Security focus
- B.S. Computer Science, University of New Mexico, Aug 2020 - May 2024
Skills
- Technical Languages: Python, C, C#
- Tools & Software: Microsoft Office Suite, Git, Linux, Unity
- Professional Skills: Project management, analytic thinking, technical writing, security analysis
Work Experience
- University of New Mexico Research Assistant, Albuquerque, NM, May 2025 - Present
- Conduct research on satellite system security, with a focus on software supply-chain threats.
- Write and contribute to academic papers analyzing security weaknesses in satellite systems.
- Develop satellite security testbeds to carry out security experiments.
- Sandia National Laboratory Intern, Albuquerque, NM, May 2023 - May 2024
- Assisted the lead engineer in modernizing and automating our team’s support ticketing system to improve efficiency.
- Developed JavaScript-based automation, including a round-robin ticket assignment system and a script to auto-populate reports.
- Collaborated with multiple teams to integrate and stabilize new features.
- Expanded service coverage to additional sites, increasing the team’s support capacity and impact.
- Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM, May 2022 - May 2023
- Developed a comprehensive system requirements document for updating the Facility Engineering Department’s aging SharePoint site.
- Analyzed current operations, identified areas for improvement, and interfaced with stakeholders to translate user needs into technical specifications for the site update.
- Developed an implementation plan for modernizing department operations.
Certificates
- CompTIA Security+, August 2024
- Google Project Management Professional Certificate, June 2022
Relevant Courses
- CS 551 - Independent Satellite Security Study - A+
- Led a student research team analyzing cybersecurity vulnerabilities in CubeSat systems in collaboration with UNM professors and local research institutions.
- Designed and executed satellite malware simulations using NASA’s NOS3 environment, demonstrating covert attack vectors.
- Authored and submitted a research paper pending publication, shared with NASA engineers and mapped against the SPARTA attack matrix for validation.
- CS 591 - Advanced Cybersecurity - A+
- Studied advanced cyber attack strategies and defense mechanisms.
- Wrote an in-depth research paper analyzing censorship techniques used by totalitarian regimes and their implications for digital freedom and security.
- GLNS 510 - Cyber & National Security - A+
- Explored the intersection of cybersecurity and national defense.
- Conducted detailed case studies on cyber attacks such as Stuxnet.
- Authored a comprehensive research paper on the Ukrainian power grid breach and its geopolitical significance.
Honors & Awards
- CyberCorp Scholarship for Service
- Awarded full scholarship through a competitive federal program supporting cybersecurity students committed to government service.
- Includes mentorship, conferences, and learning resources.
- UNM Dean’s List
- Recognized for academic excellence for maintaining a GPA above 3.5.
Hobbies
- UNM Cyber Club
- Engage in code analysis, network analysis, and Hack The Box challenges with fellow UNM students.
- Actively participate in Capture the Flag competitions to apply and expand cybersecurity skills.
- Website and Social Media Development
- Develop and maintain personal web projects to strengthen skills in web design, SEO, branding, and content strategy
- Independent Research and Side Projects
- Explore off-topic research interests and history-focused reading to broaden curiosity, strengthen thinking, and develop ideas outside formal coursework.