I received my M.Sc. degree in Computer Science from Dalhousie University and my Ph.D. in compute engineering from the University of Waterloo in Canada. I developed a passion for research in the areas of cybersecurity and machine learning since the onset of my career.
Waterloo provided me with a rich research experience and introduced me to the formal way of doing theoretical and experimental research. Therefore, my research is a mix of formal rigorous theoretical frameworks and thorough experimental evaluation.
At Zayed University, I am involved in many aspects of research in information technology, and continue to enjoy research and teaching different courses.
Recent research
My recent research focuses on the integration of the Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Blockchain for the realization and security of Industry 4.0. My colleagues, Dr. Sujith Mathew and I have recently been awarded a grant from Zayed University to design and implement full-fledged solutions and algorithms for the integration of blockchain with different types of Intrusion Detection Systems.
For example, for the blockchain-based Anomaly Intrusion Detection, our solution leverages machine learning algorithms, such as deep learning, in the local context of IDS to predict quickly and in real time whether or not the network traffic data is potentially malicious or safe, and to identify and respond to threats as they occur with many security experts no longer trusting traditional security mechanisms.
Integrated with blockchain, the unique ability of machine learning algorithms to process lots of data in relatively rapid way, extract features of all forms and make smart decisions regarding intrusion detection functionalities and rules remodels IDS to be an influential layer of the defense system.
Purpose and Implications of the Research
I am aspiring at weaving my research interests together, to envision the future of IoT, Cloud, Social Network, and Blockchain security and privacy which are spaces where people and everyday things interact seamlessly.
New technological advances in mobility, sensor technologies, cloud computing, and machine learning are enabling novel pervasive models in IoT, Cloud and Fog Computing environments. Physical environments like hospital rooms, classrooms, smart cities, smart transportation, and smart manufacturing have computing capabilities embedded into their fabric enabling a network of things, places, and people.
My aim is to collaborate and develop novel security and privacy solutions for pervasive models typically deployed in future smart spaces to create sustainable environments. I pursue this research in light of new paradigms like Internet of Things, Cloud Computing, and Big Data. The outcomes will result in a secure comprehensive architecture that defines the various components and their inter-operations in a smart environment that is aware of its inhabitant’s roles.
Future Research Directions
The confluence of Internet technology and Cybersecurity is an ideal environment for my research to thrive in, enabling an interdisciplinary research ecosystem. Collaborating with researchers from different universities including UAE University, University of Waterloo, and Murdoch University, I am currently working on funded projects in the areas of Social Bot Detection, Blockchain-Based Collaborative Intrusion Detection Systems, Blockchain-Based Identity Management, Fog Computing Security, Social Network Forensics, Anonymity, Digital Health, and Academic Integrity.
Message to Youth and Aspiring Scientists
Choosing an important problem to work on is very essential to gain support and achieve fruitful results. It is better also to work on a problem that other people can build on and foster your research initiatives and ideas.
