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About:

Dr. Jeff Roach is an Associate Professor of Computing at East Tennessee State University. With a strong background in software engineering and computer graphics, he currently serves as the Graduate Coordinator for the Department of Computing. Dr. Roach has particular expertise in graphics engine architecture, game development, and software engineering. Beyond his academic responsibilities, he contributes his software development skills to the Clemmer College of Education and Human Development. His commitment to both research and teaching is evident through his active participation in conferences, student mentorship, and curriculum development.

Education:

PhD, Computer Science, Nova Southeastern University, 2013
MS, Computer and Information Science, Software Engineering, East Tennessee State University, 2000
BS, Computing, Management, University of Technology, Jamaica, 1996

Research & Interests:

Graphics Engine Architecture, Game Development and Animation, Procedural Animation Techniques, Game AI and Machine Learning, Software Engineering and Design, Course Scheduling Constraints

Courses Taught: 

CSCI 1260: Introduction to Computer Science 2
CSCI 3110: Advanced Topics in Web Development
CSCI 4157/5157: Interactive Graphics
CSCI 5150: Distributed Systems
CSCI 5200: Software Systems Engineering
CSCI 5220: Software Verification & Validation
CSCI 5230: Software Project Management
CSCI 5300: Software Design
CSCI 5400: Software Production

Publications & Conference Presentations:

Owusu, K., Husari, G. H., Bennett, B. T., Roach, J. W. A. (2025). Loan Default Prediction Approach Using Machine Learning. Appalachian Research in Business Symposium (ARBS).
Roach, J. W. A. (2022). Creating a Maintainable and Reusable WebGL Graphics Engine Architecture.
Roach, J. W. A. (2021). Procedural Walking Animation for a Top-Down 2D RPG Character.

"Designing a Software Component to Handle Course Scheduling Constraints," ACM MSE Conference 2023, Gatlinburg, TN (November 2023)
"Creating a Maintainable and Reusable WebGL Graphics Engine Architecture," ACM Mid-Southeast Chapter 2022 Fall Conference, Gatlinburg, TN (November 2022)
"Procedural Walking Animation for a Top-Down 2D RPG Character," ACM Mid-Southeast Chapter 2021 Fall Conference, Gatlinburg, TN (November 2021)

Outreach: 

Faculty Advisor for DayGrow Graduate Project
Master's Capstone Committee Chair for multiple student projects including RMIPSS IEP System and Daygrow Project
Directed individual studies on game engine development (GRAVEngine)
Undergraduate Honors Thesis advisor for projects on VR therapy and game AI
Speaker for ETSU ACM Student Chapter
Teacher for STEM Summer Camp