Biography
Having recently been awarded a PhD from Edinburgh Napier University with the thesis titled *Contributions to Crypto-Ransomware Analysis and Detection*, I am now continuing my research in this area as a visiting fellow. My doctoral research focused on the systematic analysis and detection of crypto-ransomware, contributing novel methodologies for enhancing cybersecurity resilience.
I am a mature researcher with over 30 years of experience in the IT industry. Prior to my academic pursuits, I worked as a consultant with a financial software supplier, engaging in all aspects of financial software development, implementation, and maintenance. My career has also included roles within the IT research and development divisions of several major organisations, including Shell, IBM, and the Technical Research Centre of Finland.
Throughout my career, I have been exposed to a wide range of financial systems, corporate infrastructures, and security policies. This experience cultivated a deep interest in how organisations secure their IT assets and intellectual property, particularly the trade-offs between accessibility and security.
Motivated by this interest, I transitioned into cybersecurity research, completing a master’s degree in Advanced Security & Digital Forensics at Edinburgh Napier University with distinction. My master's dissertation involved an in-depth investigation into ransomware detection and mitigation techniques, culminating in the development of a novel approach to ransomware mitigation inspired by methodologies from other domains.
Building on this foundation, my current research continues to explore innovative strategies for detecting and countering ransomware threats, with the aim of advancing the field of cybersecurity and contributing to more effective defences against evolving cyber threats.