The Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) has obtained membership in the seL4 Foundation. This membership allows SSRC to participate in and contribute to the open-source development of seL4, a formally verified microkernel OS. SSRC aims to research, contribute to, and advance next-generation high-end edge device environments using seL4's capabilities. Why it matters: This move enhances the UAE's capabilities in developing secure and resilient edge computing solutions, fostering innovation in critical sectors like secure communications and drone technology.
Conor McMenamin from Universitat Pompeu Fabra presented a seminar on State Machine Replication (SMR) without honest participants. The talk covered the limitations of current SMR protocols and introduced the ByRa model, a framework for player characterization free of honest participants. He then described FAIRSICAL, a sandbox SMR protocol, and discussed how the ideas could be extended to real-world protocols, with a focus on blockchains and cryptocurrencies. Why it matters: This research on SMR protocols and their incentive compatibility could lead to more robust and secure blockchain technologies in the region.
KAUST's Saudi Summer Internship (SSI) program hosted 29 undergraduate students from Saudi universities this year, up from just 6 students five years ago. The students were assigned to CEMSE labs for 8-12 weeks, conducting research alongside KAUST faculty. At the end of the program, the students participated in a poster competition to present their work. Why it matters: This program fosters local talent in STEM fields and strengthens KAUST's ties with other Saudi universities.
John Pagano, CEO of The Red Sea Development Company and AMAALA, spoke at WEP 2022 about regenerative tourism. He highlighted that AMAALA and The Red Sea Project are the world's most ambitious regenerative projects today, using innovative sustainable methods. In partnership with KAUST, they undertook marine spatial planning simulations to protect the marine environment, conserve 75% of the islands, and designate nine conservation zones. Why it matters: This initiative signals a commitment to sustainable tourism development in Saudi Arabia, leveraging research and technology to minimize environmental impact while creating new industries.
The Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) has partnered with the University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) to research enhancements and scaling of the seL4 microkernel on edge devices. The collaboration aims to extend the seL4 microkernel to support dynamic virtualization, combining minimal trusted computing base with strong isolation. This will address challenges related to heterogeneous hardware, software, and environmental factors in edge computing. Why it matters: This partnership aims to improve the security of edge devices in critical sectors, addressing vulnerabilities in cyber-physical and autonomous systems.
TII's Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) has partnered with Purdue University on a three-year cybersecurity project focused on ensuring the safe and efficient use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in urban environments. The collaboration will study security and resilience in cyber-physical and autonomous systems, addressing vulnerabilities in communication, navigation, and command and control. The project includes four phases: modeling and analysis of UAS security, developing algorithms for high-assurance autonomy, constructing an experimental environment, and testing mitigation strategies. Why it matters: The partnership enhances the UAE's capabilities in securing critical digital systems and fosters the growth of commercial autonomous drones and robots, opening new opportunities for enterprises.
Dr. Abdelrahman AlMahmoud from TII's Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) will participate in a WGISTA webinar on adopting a digital mindset in auditing and fighting corruption. The webinar, organized by the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI), will discuss the impact of emerging technologies on public sector auditing. Dr. AlMahmoud will share insights on how AI and Big Data can enable auditors to process data at a new scale. Why it matters: This highlights the UAE's growing role in applying advanced technologies like AI and big data to improve governance and accountability in the public sector.