Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are two of the most crucial technologies that will affect our increasingly connected digital lives for years to come … Contributing to the research and education of these disruptive technologies to make the world a safer and smarter place is what motivates me every day.
Srujan Kotikela, Ph.D. Assistant Professor
- Faculty
After obtaining his bachelor's degree from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Dr. Srujan Kotikela worked as an associate educator at Infosys Education and Research, where he discovered his passion for learning and sharing knowledge. Kotikela continued his academic journey, completing his master's degree and doctorate at the University of North Texas, specializing in cloud computing, systems security, trusted computing and knowledge engineering. During his tenure in the industry, Kotikela developed advanced cybersecurity solutions in cloud computing, malware analysis and containerized service delivery. He holds several patents from the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Being familiar with the challenges faced in real-world cybersecurity applications, Kotikela transitioned back to academia with a focus on applied research to address practical problems. Outside of academics, Kotikela enjoys spending time in nature, watching and playing sports, and contemplating the neuropsychological foundations of human behavior.
A Conversation with Dr. Kotikela
What draws you to your discipline?
Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are two of the most crucial technologies that will affect our increasingly connected digital lives for years to come. Even more critical are the opportunities and challenges actualized by their synergistic applications. Contributing to the research and education of these disruptive technologies to make the world a safer and smarter place is what motivates me every day.
Tell us about a project you are currently working on or recently completed.
I am currently evaluating the utility of cutting-edge Machine Learning (ML) approaches to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of cybersecurity operations. The key challenge is to identify new algorithms and data models that are appropriate for cybersecurity data, which is inherently versatile and connected in nature. This project will address one of the biggest challenges in today's cybersecurity industry—a shortage of trained professionals—by greatly improving the amount of time and effort required to resolve security threats.
Educational Background
- Ph.D., Computer Science and Engineering, University of North Texas, 2018
- M.S., Computer Science, University of North Texas, 2014
- BTech, Computer Science and Engineering, Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, 2008
Research Interests
- Confidential computing
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cloud computing
- Internet of Things