Cybersecurity Research

AI icon Cybersecurity at Ontario Tech University is a multi-disciplinary, global centre for cybersecurity research, innovation, teaching, and outreach.We explore and solve critical questions with research that has technological, financial, legal, ethical and social implications to privacy, security and trust. Collaborate with research experts and skilled student talent to advance innovation in cybersecurity.

The Institute for Cybersecurity and Resilient Systems at Ontario Tech University is a multi-disciplinary, global centre for cybersecurity research, innovation, teaching, and outreach. We explore and solve critical questions with research that has technological, financial, legal, ethical and social implications to privacy, security and trust. Collaborate with research experts and skilled student talent to advance innovation in cybersecurity.

Area of expertise

The Cybersecurity Laboratory is a specialized research group committed to advancing the field of cybersecurity by addressing the challenges organizations face in protecting their data, networks, and systems from evolving threats. Researchers and students at the lab utilize cutting-edge technologies and methodologies to explore various dimensions of cybersecurity, including network security, cryptography, threat detection, and incident response. The lab's work focuses on developing innovative solutions to safeguard critical infrastructure, ensuring privacy, and fostering trust in digital ecosystems. By bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical applications, the lab aims to contribute to the global effort of combating cyber threats and enhancing the security of online environments.

Research services

The facility offers a range of services designed to help organizations in the private, public, and non-profit sectors bolster their cybersecurity posture. These services include:

Cyber Threat Analysis and Risk Assessment:
Our experts conduct thorough assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities, threats, and risks in an organization’s digital infrastructure. We use advanced tools and techniques to simulate cyberattacks and evaluate the effectiveness of existing security measures. This service helps organizations understand their cybersecurity risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.
Cryptography and Data Privacy:
We conduct research on encryption techniques and privacy-preserving protocols to ensure secure communications and data storage. Our expertise helps organizations implement secure methods for protecting sensitive data and ensuring compliance with privacy regulations.
Security Protocols and System Design:
Our lab works on developing secure communication protocols and designing resilient systems that can withstand cyber threats. We help organizations design and implement secure systems from the ground up, ensuring that security is embedded into the architecture of their IT infrastructure.
Machine Learning and AI in Cybersecurity:
Leveraging machine learning and artificial intelligence, we develop advanced models for threat detection and predictive security. These techniques are used to identify unusual patterns and detect potential attacks in real-time, improving an organization's ability to respond to and prevent cyber threats.
Data Protection and Secure Software Development:
Our research focuses on secure software development practices and the implementation of data protection measures throughout the software development lifecycle. We work with organizations to ensure that software is developed with robust security features to prevent exploitation by malicious actors.

Carolyn McGregor AM, PhD, SMIEEE
Dean, Faculty of Business and IT
Director, Joint Research Centre in AI for Health and Wellness
Research Excellence Chair in Health Informatics
Canada Research Chair (Alumni) in Health Informatics
carolyn.mcgregor@ontariotechu.ca