Build the Future of Ethereum on the JVM

The Linux Foundation’s Decentralized Trust (LFDT) mentorship program is back in 2025 with two exciting opportunities for developers passionate about Ethereum, Android, and the Java Virtual Machine (JVM). Whether you’re a seasoned blockchain developer or an Android enthusiast eager to dive into Web3, these mentorships offer a unique chance to contribute to the Web3j ecosystem.​

The Web3j-Android library is pivotal for developers integrating Android applications with the Ethereum blockchain, enabling them to leverage Web3j’s robust capabilities within a mobile environment. Following the success of the previous mentorship program in 2024, the Web3j-Android library was significantly upgraded from version 4.8.8 to version 4.12.3-android, effectively resolving challenges related to coherence, functionality, and alignment with modern Android development practices.​

This project proposes to build upon the accomplishments of the prior mentorship by further enhancing and expanding the functionalities of the Web3j-Android library. Given Kotlin’s prominence as the preferred programming language for Android development, this initiative aims specifically to facilitate the generation of Kotlin-based smart contract wrappers. Achieving this objective will ensure the library fully aligns with contemporary development standards for both Android applications and Ethereum blockchain technologies.​

After this is achieved, the project will continue with improving the release process and the keep-up-to-date procedure of Web3j-Android with the main Web3j library.​

 Application Link: Apply Here

Recommended Skills:

• Strong understanding of Android development: Knowledge of Android SDK, Android Studio, and the Android app development lifecycle.
• Very good understanding of Java and Kotlin: Since Android development can involve both languages, familiarity with Java and Kotlin is essential, especially considering the existing Web3j-Android library is in Java, and new developments in Android often leverage Kotlin.
• Experience with Ethereum and smart contracts: Understanding of Ethereum blockchain, smart contracts, and how they interact with Android applications using Web3j.
• Familiarity with Web3j library: A grasp of the existing Web3j library functionalities, structures, and its application in Android environments.
• Problem-solving skills: Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot complex issues that may arise during development or integration of blockchain technologies in Android applications.
• Version control with Git: Experience with Git for version control to manage code changes and collaborate with other developers.
• Communication and collaboration skills: Ability to work effectively in a team, articulate ideas clearly, and collaborate on complex projects.​

The Web3j library is an essential tool for Java and JVM-based developers looking to integrate with the Ethereum blockchain. It provides seamless Ethereum client communication, enabling developers to interact with smart contracts and blockchain networks. However, maintaining and improving Web3j while ensuring seamless adoption of the latest Ethereum Improvement Proposals (EIPs) remains a challenge for maintainers due to the lack of time and contributors.​

This project aims to enhance the core Web3j by improving and bringing up to date its component libraries such as Web3j-Unit, Web3j-EVM, and Web3j-OpenAPI, focusing on reducing existing issues and integrating the missing EIPs. By improving the additional Web3j libraries, we aim to streamline development workflows, enhance testability, and create a more robust framework that simplifies Ethereum development for Java and JVM-based projects. The updates will address known gaps in the libraries, ensuring compatibility with the latest Ethereum standards while improving documentation, developer experience, and maintainability.​

The initiative will introduce structural improvements, new features, and documentation for better integration and testing, making Web3j a more sustainable and adaptable Web3 development tool project.​

 Application Link: Apply Here

Recommended Skills:

• Strong understanding of Java development: Knowledge of Java versions, IntelliJ IDEA, Gradle, GitHub.
• Very good understanding of Java and Kotlin.
• Background in computer science, computer engineering, or equivalent.
• Experience with Ethereum and smart contracts: Understanding of Ethereum blockchain, smart contracts, and how they interact with applications using Web3j.
• Familiarity with Web3j library: A grasp of the existing Web3j library functionalities and structures.
• Problem-solving skills: Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot complex issues that may arise during development or integration of blockchain technologies in JVM applications.
• Version control with Git: Experience with Git for version control to manage code changes and collaborate with other developers.
• Communication and collaboration skills: Ability to work effectively in a team, articulate ideas clearly, and collaborate on complex projects.​

Both mentorships will be guided by two seasoned professionals from Web3 Labs:​

• George Ţebrean: A Senior Java Developer and experienced open-source contributor, George brings over 8 years of expertise in Java development and blockchain integration.
• Nischal Sharma: A Blockchain Developer at Web3 Labs and maintainer of Web3j, Nischal has extensive experience in Ethereum development and has previously mentored projects under the Linux Foundation’s Hyperledger program.

Their combined expertise ensures that mentees will receive comprehensive guidance throughout the program.​

These mentorships are more than just projects — they’re gateways to becoming integral parts of the Web3j and Ethereum developer communities. You’ll gain hands-on experience, mentorship from industry experts, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact on tools used by developers worldwide.

 Application Link: Apply Here