Rhyner Washburn on Academic Cybersecurity Research

Future of Cyber Crime

In order to protect our data and systems, we need to develop new methods and tools for safeguarding them against attack. Academic researchers are at the forefront of developing new strategies for protecting our data and systems from cyberattacks. They are constantly exploring new ways to secure our networks, defend our systems, and prevent unauthorized access.

In this episode of the Future of Cybercrime podcast, Zaira speaks with Cyber Intelligence Researcher at the National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism (START) at the University of Maryland, Rhyner Washburn. During the show, Rhyner and Zaira discuss cybersecurity research in academia and private companies.

Topics discussed:

• Rhyner talks about the various roles of a cybersecurity researcher and the day in the life of a cybersecurity researcher in academia.
• Rhyner and Zaira uncover some differences between academic research and investigations that you might find in a public or private sector organization.
• They explore the benefits organizations could realize from having dedicated researchers not purely driven by the organization's mission.
• Rhyner discusses his START work, including biosecurity, CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) threats, and cybersecurity.
• Zaira focuses on the commercial nature of much of today's relevant cybersecurity threat intelligence and probes to discover Rhyner's views on the future of academic research in this area.
• Rhyner discusses some ways that collaboration between academia and private companies can elevate the level of cybersecurity research.
• Rhyner offers three pieces of actionable advice for security practitioners and researchers.

Resources Mentioned:

• Rhyner Washburn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rtburn/
• National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism (START): https://www.start.umd.edu/