Meet Zarko Gvozdenovic: Accelerating Telos' zkEVM

At Eth Belgrade we had the opportunity to sit down with Zarko Gvozdenovic, Head of Software at Ponos Technology, to discuss his background, expertise, and the exciting developments for the development of our hardware-accelerated zkEVM L2. 

Here are the main takeaways from their discussion:

Background and Expertise of Zarko Gvozdenovic

Zarko Gvozdenovic has an impressive background in software engineering and chip lithography. He began his professional career in the Netherlands, working on cross-platform cryptography software. Later, he transitioned to chip lithography at ASML, a world-renowned company, where he contributed to the development of cutting-edge lithography technology.

Journey to Ponos Technology and Telos

Introduced to Ponos Technology by Vladimir Petrovic, Zarko started working on hardware accelerations and eventually collaborated with Telos on the SNARKtor project. His expertise in optimizing hardware for throughput and cost makes him a valuable asset to the Telos team.

The Importance of Hardware-Software Co-Design

Zarko emphasized the critical role of hardware-software co-design in achieving optimal performance. He explained how understanding hardware architecture and data structures is essential for maximizing computational efficiency. This approach is vital for developing high-performance ZK proving systems.

The Evolution of Chip Lithography

Zarko provided an overview of his work at ASML, detailing the advancements in extreme ultraviolet (EUV) technology and computational lithography. His experience with these cutting-edge technologies has equipped him with a deep understanding of the complexities involved in chip manufacturing and optimization.

FPGA and ASIC Development

Zarko discussed the transition from FPGA to ASIC in ZK proving systems. He highlighted the benefits of using FPGAs as an intermediate step, offering a flexible and cost-effective way to test and optimize algorithms before moving to ASICs. This approach ensures that the final product is both efficient and effective.

Cultural and Professional Growth

Reflecting on his personal journey, Zarko shared how living in the Netherlands and working in a diverse and inclusive environment shaped his professional and personal development. His holistic approach to life and work has enabled him to tackle complex challenges with a balanced perspective.

Future Prospects and Excitement

Zarko expressed his excitement for the future of Telos and the potential of ZK hardware acceleration. He emphasized the importance of community involvement and critical reflection to ensure that the Telos team is on the right path to success.

Final Thoughts

Zarko Gvozdenovic’s conversation with John Lilic offered valuable insights into his background and the innovative work being done at Telos. His expertise and holistic approach make him a significant addition to the team, and his vision for the future is both exciting and inspiring.

Stay tuned for more updates from the Telos team!