Addressing the growing cybersecurity concerns with Digital Research Infrastructure

The academic research sector, the cornerstone of innovation and knowledge for Australia, faces significant challenges in maintaining robust cybersecurity measures. This session aims to identify and discuss the critical gaps in cybersecurity within the infrastructure that underpins the sector. Despite the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber attacks, is the Digital Research Infrastructure (DRI) sector lifting its game to meet the challenges or is there more that we can do?

Key representatives from the sector will frame the concerns and challenges for DRI providers and explore the unique vulnerabilities inherent to the academic research environment, including decentralised infrastructures, open-access policies, and the collaborative nature of research projects.

Additionally, the session will explore the disparity in cybersecurity maturity levels across institutions, the need for specialised training for researchers, and the challenges posed by the integration of diverse and often outdated legacy systems and different geopolitical influences on research.

Through a collaborative discussion, we aim to identify these gaps and foster a culture of cybersecurity awareness. By sharing experiences, best practices, and potential solutions, attendees will contribute to strengthening the overall cyber resilience of the academic research community.

Join us in this vital conversation to protect the integrity and future of academic research from the ever-evolving cyber threats.