Cyber Innovations Lab (CIL)

Below, is the outline of current main areas of focus in Cyber Innovations Lab, where we aim to contribute to cutting-edge advancements in technology and security. Our research revolves around five primary categories, each representing a critical aspect of the evolving landscape in computer sciences and cybersecurity. 

1.  Cyber Systems Security & Privacy

The security and privacy of sensitive data remain paramount in today’s digital landscape. Through our research in applied cryptography and security, we aim to develop sophisticated cryptographic algorithms and secure communication protocols. By exploring cryptographic primitives, encryption techniques, and secure key management, we strive to fortify the foundations of secure data transmission and storage

2.   Trustworthy AI in Cybersecurity

In this research area, we investigate both how machine learning can enhance cybersecurity defenses and how to protect AI systems from adversarial attacks. Our recent work develops intelligent security mechanisms for threat detection while simultaneously creating novel methodologies to protect AI models from manipulation through adversarial inputs. This dual approach ensures we build both effective and resilient AI-powered security solutions.

3.   Decentralized Systems and Applications: Architecture, Security, and Real-Word Implementation

Our research in decentralized systems encompasses both foundational architectures and their practical applications. continue to advance the field through innovative P2P frameworks, as demonstrated in our recent IEEE Internet of Things Journal publication and other significant works. Our current research focuses on location-aware cryptography and secure fog computing architectures, particularly in healthcare applications. By integrating blockchain technology and advanced cryptographic protocols, we address critical challenges in scalability, security, and efficiency

4.   Brain-Computer Interfaces and their Security

In this emerging area, we advance the frontiers of neural computing and its security implications. Our recent work, published in IEEE Transactions on Cognitive and Developmental Systems, presents a comprehensive review of EEG-to-text conversion technologies, analyzing current methodologies, challenges, and future directions in brain signal decoding while considering privacy and security implications . This research aims to establish novel methodologies for secure neural data processing and transmission, addressing critical challenges in brain-computer interface security.

5.   Digital Warfare & Cybersecurity Policy 

Our research in cyber warfare examines the evolving landscape of digital conflicts, defensive strategies, and their implications for national security. This work encompasses the analysis of sophisticated cyber threats, development of counter-measures, and investigation of emerging battlefield dynamics in the digital domain. Through policy-focused research, we develop frameworks for enhancing organizational and national cyber resilience while addressing modern threats. This includes creating comprehensive approaches for securing e-commerce systems through risk management and compliance frameworks, ensuring robust protection for digital transactions and critical infrastructure. 

6.   Computing Sciences Education

As an educator and researcher, We are am committed to advancing cybersecurity education through innovative approaches . Our current work, supported by the NSF NAIRR pilot program, focuses on developing advanced machine learning curricula for cybersecurity education. As Curriculum Developer for the IN-CITE program ($1.5M DOL grant), I lead the development of cyber warfare training curricula bridging academic and military needs. I also successfully led USM’s effort to achieve the NSA CAE-CD designation, strengthening our institution’s position in cybersecurity education.

Current Students