Jesse Flores

Elgin, IL | jesse.flores@tufts.edu | in/flores-jesse | github.com/jesse-flores | Website

CAREER OBJECTIVE

Driven and creative Electrical Engineering and Computer Science student passionate about the intersection of hardware and software. Eager to apply a strong foundation in AI/ML, robotics, and embedded systems to solve complex challenges and contribute to cutting-edge projects.

EDUCATION

Tufts University, Medford, MA

Expected Graduation: May 2028

Candidacy for double B.S. in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science 3.5/4.00 GPA

Relevant Coursework: Machine Learning, Reinforcement Learning, Digital Electronics, Data Structures, Linear Algebra

SKILLS

Programming Languages

C++, Python, Java, MATLAB, Linux/Bash

AI & Machine Learning

PyTorch, TensorFlow, Scikit-learn, NumPy, Pandas, OpenCV, MediaPipe, Object-Oriented Programming (OOP), Data Structures & Algorithms

Robotics & Hardware

ROS2, SLAM, LiDAR, NVIDIA Jetson Nano, Arduino, Microcontrollers, KiCad, SolidWorks

Other

Microsoft and Google Suite, Machine Tools, English (Fluent), Spanish (Fluent)

SELECTED PROJECTS (more projects on GitHub)

Neuroevolutionary Continual Learning for Language Models | Python, PyTorch, NEAT, Datasets

  • Authored paper for ICLR 2026 and MLSys 2026 proposing a novel framework mitigating catastrophic forgetting in large language models
  • Designed and implemented a dual-population evolutionary system (EMA-NEAT) where a blueprint genome controls network architecture and a module population evolves specialized neural modules (e.g., Attention, CNN layers)
  • Benchmarked system on a series of real-world datasets (Wikipedia, Code, PubMed), achieving robust performance on new tasks while minimizing forgetting of prior knowledge
  • Engineered a PyTorch-based pipeline for network assembly, training, and evaluation, demonstrating expertise in full-stack deep learning development
  • Temp link to paper not yet public due to MLSys guidelines: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yBf2mpTK1S1BWyhWKJs-d_mKiL74ulfP/view?usp=sharing

Automated Molecular Design Platform | Python, RDKit, scikit-learn, SQLite, AutoDock Vina

  • Developed a complete computational pipeline for de novo molecular design, automating the discovery process from generation to property evaluation
  • Integrated generative algorithms with predictive QSAR models (Random Forest) and molecular docking simulations to propose and rank novel drug-like compounds
  • Implemented multi-criteria filtering based on synthetic accessibility and known problematic substructures, reducing design time to minutes and improving candidate quality
  • Engineered a robust system to save and retrieve results using SQLite and CSV, enabling scalable data management and analysis

Robotic 3D Mapping Vehicle (First Responder) | Python, C++, ROS2, SLAM, LiDAR

  • Lead the design of a compact mobile robot to generate 3D maps of hazardous interiors for first responder tactical planning
  • Integrated LiDAR sensors with SLAM algorithms to achieve real-time 3D point-cloud generation and visualization
  • Develop object-avoidance and navigation logic in Python, enabling robust operation in unstructured environments

C++ Feedforward Neural Network for Digit Recognition (From Scratch) | C++, SFML

  • Implemented backpropagation, matrix operations, and activation functions without relying on external machine learning libraries
  • Developed an interactive GUI using SFML, allowing users to draw a digit and receive an instantaneous model prediction, showcasing experience in creating functional end-to-end applications

EXPERIENCE

AI & Robotics Research Scholar

Access for Computing Equity (ACE++) Program, Tufts University

May 2025 – Present
  • 12-week residential summer program designed to support Tufts engineers from underrepresented backgrounds in computer science, providing foundational coursework in data structures as well as community-building opportunities to prepare for success in the field
  • Collaborating with Tufts faculty to develop and train novel AI-powered robotics models, applying advanced machine learning concepts to solve complex control and perception problems to speed up robotic training processes

Robotics Education Intern

Robotics For All

September 2024 – Present
  • Design and pilot robotics curriculum for underserved schools like John D. O'Bryant School of Math and Science to update the robotics curriculum starting with 30+ students and expanding to local schools; developing Lego robotics demos and revamped, modular and skill-based lesson plans for in-class materials to foster creative thinking and use of materials
  • Collaborate with local educators and present impact reports to stakeholders at the Center for Engineering Education and Outreach
  • Collaborate with Tufts student and instructor at John D. O'Bryant School of Math and Science to update the robotics curriculum; developing Lego robotics demos and revamped lesson plans for in-class materials to foster creative thinking and use of materials
  • Collaborated with local educators and presented impact reports to stakeholders at the Tufts Center for Engineering Education and Outreach

Learning Outreach Fellow

Center for Engineering Education and Outreach CEEO

January 2025 – May 2025
  • Designed and led weekly hands-on activities, including bridge constructing and robot control processing applications, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills, evidenced by their improved communication and brainstorming process
  • Worked closely with 25+ gifted Benjamin Banneker Charter Public School students focusing on personalized approaches to foundational engineering concepts

Electronics Engineer

Formula SAE

September 2024 – Present
  • Developing and testing communication protocols, including CAN and serial data transmission, to ensure reliable data transfer between sensors and microcontrollers for real-time telemetry and system diagnostics while driving
  • Collaborated on the mechanical team to design and prototype a customizable pedal system, iterating from CAD models to cardboard and metal prototypes to create a solution adaptable to various driver heights

Lab Assistant

Robotics Workshop

January 2025
  • Coordinated and supported hands-on STEM education for over 40 Girl Scouts during a full-day robotics workshop, fostering engagement and learning in robotics and assistive technology
  • Supported group activities and provided technical assistance, helping participants ideate, build, and troubleshoot functional robot prototypes using LEGO Education kits and custom motors

Researcher

Stanford Bioengineering Research Program

August 2022 – September 2022
  • Completed a highly selective 6-week program, gaining foundational knowledge in bioengineering through lectures and research presentations from field leaders
  • Independently developed a preliminary research proposal on bioinspired robotic systems, specifically investigating the integration of soft materials for novel biomedical devices

VOLUNTEERING AND COMMUNITY BUILDING

Volunteer Mentor

Technology & Prototype Development (The Timothy Smith Network)

February 2025 – Present
  • Mentor 3 high school students in coding, electronics, and prototype development, helping finalize technology projects such as anxiety-reducing devices and automated gardening systems
  • Provide hands-on support with Arduino programming, circuit design, and integration of sensors/actuators, ensuring functional and efficient prototypes for social good
  • Supported teams in creating pitch presentations and technical documentation for public showcases

Electrical Engineering Chair

Robotics Club, Tufts University

March 2025 – Present
  • Support club members as the first resource for any project, question, or curiosity related to electrical engineering
  • Oversee a dozens electrical teams involved in personal projects