EECS Professor Wins $400K NSF Grant for Cutting-Edge Hardware Security Research!

Assistant Professor Tamzidul Hoque has secured a $400,000 NSF grant to tackle hardware security in the semiconductor industry. Collaborating with the University of Maine and the University of Florida, the team will receive $1.2 million over four years to combat threats like reverse engineering and IP theft.

As the semiconductor industry reuses hardware IP, it faces increased risks. This project aims to protect IP using innovative methods, including AI techniques like reinforcement learning. The goal is to develop robust security measures that adapt to evolving threats.

Additionally, the project will enhance education by creating new cybersecurity courses, involving students in research, and releasing open-source tools. This effort promises to significantly impact hardware security, benefiting both industry and academia.

The EECS department at KU continues to be at the forefront of pioneering research that addresses critical challenges in today's rapidly evolving technological landscape. Dr. Tamzidul Hoque's NSF-funded project exemplifies the department's unwavering commitment to advancing cybersecurity in the semiconductor industry. By leveraging cutting-edge AI techniques and fostering collaboration with esteemed institutions, this research is poised to set new standards in hardware security. The project's innovative approach not only aims to protect valuable intellectual property but also enriches the academic community through the development of new educational resources and tools. As KU's EECS faculty continue to push the boundaries of technological innovation, their contributions are shaping the future of both industry and academia, driving progress and ensuring a safer, more secure digital world.