Network led by University of Oxford to “realise benefits of emerging technologies”
The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) is set to launch an ambitious new cyber security initiative aimed at fortifying the UK against digital threats, thereby enhancing national safety and resilience. This initiative will also spearhead the creation of the UK’s very first learned society dedicated to cyber security.
Named the Cyber Security Research and Networking Environment NetworkPlus, this groundbreaking project will be funded with £6 million from the EPSRC and will be spearheaded by the prestigious University of Oxford.
Key objectives of the network include not only safeguarding the UK’s cyber landscape but also empowering it to better prepare for and mitigate against potential future cyber threats that could jeopardize public and private sectors alike.
Collaboration at the forefront
The newly established network will create a “learned society” specifically tailored for cyber security research, which will prioritize pressing research topics and act as a pivotal connecting hub for cyber experts from the UK and international jurisdictions.
“Our mission is to assist the community in pinpointing research areas that promise the greatest impact and to promote its growth across the UK and beyond,” emphasized Andrew Martin, the project lead from the University of Oxford’s Department of Computer Science.
The formation of this society is poised to ensure that the UK remains at the forefront of global efforts in cyber security research and innovation, maintaining its status as a leader in this critical field.
“This network will unite influential figures from both academia and industry to collaboratively devise effective strategies that bolster our defenses against ever-evolving cyber threats and attacks,” remarked Charlotte Deane, executive chair of the EPSRC.
The need for this initiative was underscored in August by UK science secretary Peter Kyle, who highlighted the urgent vulnerabilities faced by the UK, stating that it was being left “desperately exposed” to the rising tide of cyber crime.
**Interview with Dr. Sarah Thompson, Cybersecurity Expert and Lead Researcher at the University of Oxford**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Thompson. The University of Oxford is leading an exciting new network focused on emerging technologies in cyber security. Can you tell us more about this initiative and its objectives?
**Dr. Thompson:** Absolutely, thank you for having me. This initiative, spearheaded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), aims to bolster the UK’s defenses against digital threats. We’re focusing on not just identifying weaknesses in our cyber infrastructure, but also on understanding how to effectively respond to evolving challenges. One key part of this is the establishment of the UK’s first learned society dedicated exclusively to cybersecurity.
**Editor:** That sounds groundbreaking! What do you see as the primary benefits of creating this learned society?
**Dr. Thompson:** The learned society will serve as a hub for academics, practitioners, and policymakers to collaborate and share insights. One of its primary benefits will be fostering interdisciplinary research, which is essential in addressing complex cybersecurity issues. By bringing together experts from various fields, we can more effectively leverage emerging technologies to enhance both safety and resilience.
**Editor:** How do you believe this initiative will impact the UK’s overall national security?
**Dr. Thompson:** In the current digital landscape, the threats are constantly evolving. By proactively fortifying our cybersecurity posture, we can better protect our critical infrastructure, businesses, and citizens. This initiative not only aims to counteract immediate threats but also to ensure that we are prepared for future challenges. Ultimately, a stronger cybersecurity framework contributes to greater national safety.
**Editor:** With technology advancing rapidly, what emerging technologies do you think hold the most promise for improving cybersecurity measures?
**Dr. Thompson:** There are several promising technologies, but artificial intelligence and machine learning stand out. These technologies can help in identifying and responding to threats in real-time. Additionally, innovations in blockchain technology could improve data integrity and security in various systems. We aim to explore these technologies and more through this initiative, and consult the learned society’s members for guidance on best practices.
**Editor:** This sounds like an incredible step forward for the UK! What can we expect in the coming months as this initiative unfolds?
**Dr. Thompson:** In the coming months, we’ll be organizing workshops, seminars, and collaborative projects within the framework of the new network. We’re inviting stakeholders from a variety of sectors to participate, ensuring our approach is holistic and inclusive. We look forward to engaging with everyone who is passionate about advancing cybersecurity in the UK.
**Editor:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Thompson. We look forward to seeing the impact of this initiative in the near future!
**Dr. Thompson:** Thank you! I’m excited to see how collaboration will shape the future of cybersecurity in the UK.
