CS Colloquium: "Science with real-world impact: Athene – The National Research Center for Applied Cybersecurity, and opportunities for German-Israeli collaboration "

Professor Dr. Michael Waidner is a ​2024/2025 Lowy Distinguished Guest Professor of The Institute of Advanced Studies.

Abstract

Cybersecurity research thrives when we bring together diverse perspectives, ecosystems, and expertise. In this talk, I will introduce ATHENE, Europe’s largest research center for applied cybersecurity, of which I am the founding director. I will outline ATHENE’s structure — uniting over 600 researchers from three universities and two research institutes with substantial base funding from the German government — and its mission to deliver science with real-world impact. I will discuss the key research challenges driving our agenda, highlight differences in the cybersecurity landscapes of Germany and Israel, and, most importantly, explore how we can strengthen academic collaboration between our countries. ATHENE offers a unique platform for joint research initiatives, and I look forward to discussing opportunities to shape the future of cybersecurity together.