Johnathan contributed to the AztecProtocol/aztec-packages repository by refactoring the CommitmentKey API, shifting from shared pointer to pass-by-value semantics across benchmarks, client IVC, and commitment schemes. This C++ work included introducing a default constructor for PippengerReference, enabling default construction of CommitmentKey and simplifying object ownership. The changes reduced API complexity and maintenance risk, making the codebase more robust and easier to extend. By focusing on software architecture and performance optimization, Johnathan’s work laid the groundwork for future improvements in benchmarks and IVC flows, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to maintainability and long-term scalability within the project.