Internet of Things and Computer Security

Our Internet of Things (IoT) and Computer Security research group explores important issues surrounding the collection and use of often-sensitive Internet-connected data virtually everywhere: its ownership, access, and protection.

Internet of Things and Computer Security

Our research focuses on: 

  • using machine learning algorithms to analyse time-series data on wirelessly powered IoT devices 
  • realising security services in the absence of operating-system control, and under device constraints 
  • understanding how hardware and operating system services support confidential-information management 
  • analysing cryptographic algorithms to identify potential data leaks 
  • Research impact

    Our IoT and Computer Security group aims to provide solutions to fundamental problems in pervasive computing.  

    This includes in relation to: 

    • devices’ battery life 
    • making sense of noisy, continuous and sometimes untrustworthy data streams 
    • authenticating familiar security services and IoT devices’ veracity-sensor measurements 
    • securing store keys with limited IoT hardware 
    • keeping sensitive information confidential 

    Our research has been applied in a number of real-world settings, including to identify vulnerabilities in commonly used software and hardware, such as Spectre and Meltdown. We have also published more papers at top-tier international security conferences than all other Australian research universities combined. 

  • Lead researchers

    Research team Expertise
    Associate Professor Damith Ranasinghe  Distributed and intelligent technologies; Computer Security; Internet of Things
    Associate Professor Yuval Yarom  Computer Security 
    Professor Debi Ashenden  Cybersecurity
    Associate Professor Hung Nguyen  Data analytics; Cybersecurity
  • Consulting services

    We work closely with industry on IoT deployments that include: 

    • machine learning with time series data 
    • secure firmware 
    • secure firmware updates 
  • Collaboration

    We regularly collaborate with software and hardware providers, such as Intel, AMD and OpenSSL. We also work closely with Australian defence agencies, including the Defence Science and Technology (DST) Group and Australian Signals Directorate. We also collaborate with various industry and government organisations, including CSIRO and Data61.   

Higher degree by research opportunities

Whether you intend to work in research or industry, a higher degree by research can give you a competitive edge throughout your career.

Find out more about studying a Master of Philosophy Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

HDR opportunities