The University's security experts can coordinate their efforts in the new center

Mar 27, 2012 13:40 GMT  ·  By

Today, March 27, 2012, Oxford University launched a cutting-edge interdisciplinary Cyber Security Center aimed at analyzing cyber threats while enhancing the security measures used by organizations worldwide to guard their most sensitive data.

More and more educational institutions have lately become aware that cyber security is an important matter in the era where everything is based on technology, and the safety of sensitive information has turned into a number one priority.

As a result, 12 permanent academic staffers, 25 researchers and 18 doctoral students will be in charge with operating Oxford’s Cyber Security Center, dedicating their work to finding innovations in the cyber security sector.

“Oxford is striving to have a positive impact on society and the economy. Helping to create a more secure digital environment will be a wonderful way of doing this,” Professor Sadie Creese, director of the new center, explained.

“Security requires a positive -- and to a large extent open -- collaboration between industry, government agencies and universities. That is what we aim to achieve.”

Oxford University already had many cyber security specialists, but with the launch of the Center they will be able to better coordinate their efforts.

The Cyber Security Centre will not only be responsible with performing research, but it will also represent a top-class educational program for managers and engineers.

“Both the University’s Saïd Business School and the Department of Computer Science are experienced in the art of in-service, parttime education,” explained Professor Bill Roscoe, head of the computer science department.

“That and the breadth of expertise in security at Oxford will provide the perfect platform for us to create a range of educational offerings for practitioners and those who manage them.”

Oxford University’s initiative should be applauded and hopefully other institutions will follow in its footsteps.

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