UK cyber security head sees cutting-edge research
The head of the UK’s national organisation for cyber security has visited the University to learn first-hand about active research in the field.
Ciaran Martin, CEO of the National Cyber Security Centre, met researchers from the University's Cyber Security and Privacy Research Network and saw demonstrations of research relating to online security and privacy.
Mr Martin was shown technology developed at the University that enables secure online communications using light.
LiFi, developed in the School of Engineering, provides high speed, bidirectional internet connectivity using LED lights, in which information cannot travel beyond the bulb’s beam.
Researchers from Design Informatics – a collaboration between the School of Informatics and Edinburgh College of Art – demonstrated their BitBarista, an internet-enabled coffee machine that operates with Bitcoin and collects data from users.
Design Informatics researchers also showed how to build security into design.
Experts from the School of Informatics gave the CEO demonstrations on trackable devices, phishing and firewalls, and how networks might be modified while under cyber attack.
Mr Martin heard details of the forthcoming Bayes Centre, a hub to foster data-driven innovation within and beyond the University.
We were delighted to demonstrate our ideas and prototypes. Our work contributes to the NCSC's aim to put academic research high on the agenda to help the UK meet and overcome future threats and challenges.
I am delighted that the University of Edinburgh has achieved recognition as an Academic Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security Research, the first Scottish university to do so. The university’s investment in future capacity and capability will help ensure that the UK has the necessary skills and knowledge to confirm our position as a world leader in cyber security.”
Related links
National Cyber Security Centre
Cyber Security and Privacy Research Network