Mr. Vangelis Lamprou | Network Intrusion Detection | Best Researcher Award

Vangelis Lamprou at National Technical University of Athens | Greece

Mr. Vaggelis Lamprou is a PhD student in the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) and a Machine Learning Engineer specializing in deep learning, interpretable AI, and probabilistic modeling. With a strong academic foundation in mathematics and artificial intelligence, he has contributed to European-funded R&D projects in federated learning, generative AI, anomaly detection, and cybersecurity for next-generation networks. His research has been published in leading journals, including Computer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine and the IEEE Open Journal of the Communications Society.

Professional Profile:

Education:

Mr. Vaggelis Lamprou holds a strong academic background spanning mathematics and artificial intelligence, currently pursuing his PhD in the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) with a focus on deep learning, interpretable AI, and probabilistic modeling. He earned his M.Sc. in Artificial Intelligence from NCSR Demokritos and the University of Piraeus, where his thesis explored the evaluation of deep learning interpretability methods for medical images in terms of faithfulness. Prior to that, he completed an M.Sc. in Mathematics at the University of Bonn, Germany. His academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Mathematics from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA).

Experience:

Mr. Vaggelis Lamprou brings extensive professional expertise in machine learning and data analytics, with a strong track record in both academic and industry-driven innovation. He has been serving as a Machine Learning Engineer at the DSS Lab, EPU-NTUA, where he develops AI-based solutions in federated learning and generative AI for European R&D projects. Previously, as a Machine Learning Engineer at Infili Technologies SA, he designed advanced anomaly detection systems and implemented privacy-preserving mechanisms for federated learning environments. He worked as a Data Analyst at Harbor Lab, where he conducted SQL-based analytics, performed Python-driven exploratory data analysis, and collaborated with the engineering team to build a Port Cost Estimator, optimizing maritime cost assessment processes.

Research Interest:

Mr. Vaggelis Lamprou’s research interests lie at the intersection of artificial intelligence, mathematics, and secure computing, with a focus on advancing both theoretical foundations and practical applications. In AI, he specializes in deep learning architectures, interpretable AI techniques, and probabilistic modeling, aiming to enhance transparency and trust in machine learning systems. His expertise extends to computer vision and natural language processing, particularly in developing interpretability methods for medical imaging and building robust NLP pipelines. He is also engaged in federated learning and cybersecurity research, working on privacy-preserving AI and ensuring trustworthiness in emerging 5G/6G network environments. Additionally, he explores the integration of probability theory and statistical methods into AI, leveraging mathematical rigor to improve model reliability and performance.

Publications Top Noted:

Federated Learning for Enhanced Cybersecurity and Trustworthiness in 5G and 6G Networks: A Comprehensive Survey

Year: 2024 | Citations: 16

On the Evaluation of Deep Learning Interpretability Methods for Medical Images Under the Scope of Faithfulness

Year: 2024 | Citations: 4

Grad-CAM vs HiResCAM: A Comparative Study via Quantitative Evaluation Metrics

Year: 2023 | Citations: 4

Conclusion:

With a solid foundation in mathematics, AI, and cybersecurity, Mr. Vangelis Lamprou exemplifies the qualities of a Best Researcher Award recipient in Network Intrusion Detection. His work addresses some of the most pressing challenges in ensuring trust and transparency in next-generation networks. As he continues to expand his research scope and global engagement, he is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of secure AI-driven systems. His combination of academic rigor, technical innovation, and applied impact makes him a deserving candidate for this recognition.

Shankar Karuppayah | Cybersecurity | Best Researcher Award

Shankar Karuppayah, Cybersecurity Research Centre, Malaysia

Shankar Karuppayah 👨‍💻 is a distinguished Associate Professor and Deputy Director at the Cybersecurity Research Centre (CYRES), Universiti Sains Malaysia 🇲🇾. His academic journey includes a PhD in Cyber Security from Technische Universität Darmstadt 🇩🇪, focusing on advanced P2P botnet monitoring 🕵️. Shankar’s professional experience spans roles as Senior Lecturer at NAv6, Area Head and Postdoctoral Researcher at TU Darmstadt 🇩🇪. He actively contributes to the cybersecurity community as Co-Chair of APAN’s Security Working Group 🌐 and Deputy Head of MyREN’s Internet Security Working Group 🇲🇾. His dedication to research and industry collaboration makes him a valuable asset in the field 🚀.

Professional profile :

Google Scholar

Summary of Suitability :

Shankar demonstrates a compelling profile as a researcher with a strong academic foundation, significant contributions to the field of cybersecurity and P2P networks, active engagement in the research community, and a commitment to knowledge dissemination and practical application. His international experience, leadership role, and dedication to bridging academia and industry further strengthen his suitability for such an award.

Strengths:

- Strong Academic Foundation and Expertise: Holding a PhD in Cyber Security from a reputable international institution (Technische Universität Darmstadt) establishes a solid base of knowledge and research capabilities. His specific expertise in cybersecurity and P2P networks indicates a focused and in-depth understanding of critical areas.
- Significant Research Contributions: Publications in numerous esteemed journals signify a consistent and impactful research output, contributing to the body of knowledge in his field.
- Leadership and Direction: His role as Associate Professor and Deputy Director at the Cybersecurity Research Centre (CYRES) at Universiti Sains Malaysia highlights his leadership capabilities in shaping research direction and fostering a research environment.
- International Research Experience: His time at the Telecooperation Lab in Germany demonstrates exposure to diverse research environments and collaborations, enriching his perspective and network.
- Active Engagement in Professional Communities: Involvement in organizations like APAN and IEEE showcases his commitment to the broader research community, knowledge sharing, and staying abreast of the latest developments.
- Dedication to Knowledge Transfer and Impact: His active involvement in fostering cybersecurity awareness and bridging the gap between academia and industry through consultancy projects indicates a commitment to translating research into practical applications and societal benefit.

Education :

PhD, Cyber Security, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Germany 🇩🇪
MSc, Software Systems Engineering, King Mongkut’s Univ. of Tech. North Bangkok, Thailand 🇹🇭
BSc (Hons), Computer Science, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Malaysia 🇲🇾

Experience :

Associate Professor, Cybersecurity Research Centre (CYRES), USM 🇲🇾 (Oct’24–present)
Deputy Director, Cybersecurity Research Centre (CYRES), USM 🇲🇾 (2023–present)
Senior Lecturer, National Advanced IPv6 Centre (NAv6), USM 🇲🇾 (2016–Sept’24)
Area Head, Telecooperation Lab (TK), TU Darmstadt 🇩🇪 (2020–2021)
Postdoctoral Researcher, Telecooperation Lab (TK), TU Darmstadt 🇩🇪 (2019–2021)

Professional Development :

Dr. Karuppayah actively engages in the cybersecurity community through memberships in APAN, IEEE, MyREN, and MBOT 🌐. His role as a journal reviewer for esteemed publications like ACM CSUR and IEEE T-IFS showcases his commitment to advancing the field ✍️. He has also contributed to USM as a Mobile Access Coordinator and Industry Liaison Fellow, and as a Subject Matter Expert for their Cyber Security Awareness Program 🛡️. His involvement in various consultancy projects, such as the Embedded Systems Upskilling Program 🛠️, highlights his dedication to bridging academic knowledge with industry needs and fostering talent in the tech sector 🌱.

Research Focus :

Dr. Karuppayah’s research primarily centers on the critical domain of cybersecurity 🛡️, with a strong emphasis on network security and threat intelligence. His work delves into the advanced monitoring and detection of peer-to-peer (P2P) botnets 🤖, exploring novel methodologies to identify and counter these malicious networks. He also investigates security challenges and solutions within the Internet of Things (IoT) 🌐 and cyber-physical systems, addressing vulnerabilities in interconnected environments. Furthermore, his research extends to the design and development of security operation center as a service (SOCaaS) solutions ☁️ and user-mobility optimized routing protocols for disaster communication networks 🚨, demonstrating a commitment to both proactive defense and resilient infrastructure.

Publication Top Notes :

1. Title: Taxonomy and Survey of Collaborative Intrusion Detection
Citation:
Vasilomanolakis, E., Karuppayah, S., Mühlhäuser, M., & Fischer, M. (2015). Taxonomy and survey of collaborative intrusion detection. ACM Computing Surveys (CSUR), 47(4), 1–33.
https://doi.org/10.1145/2716260

2. Title: Botnet-based Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Attacks on Web Servers: Classification and Art
Citation:
Alomari, E., Manickam, S., Gupta, B. B., Karuppayah, S., & Alfaris, R. (2012). Botnet-based distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks on web servers: classification and art. arXiv preprint arXiv:1208.0403.
https://arxiv.org/abs/1208.0403

3. Title: A Review on the Role of Blockchain Technology in the Healthcare Domain
Citation:
Zubaydi, H. D., Chong, Y. W., Ko, K., Hanshi, S. M., & Karuppayah, S. (2019). A review on the role of blockchain technology in the healthcare domain. Electronics, 8(6), 679.
https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics8060679

4. Title: MQTT Vulnerabilities, Attack Vectors and Solutions in the Internet of Things (IoT)
Citation:
Hintaw, A. J., Manickam, S., Aboalmaaly, M. F., & Karuppayah, S. (2023). MQTT vulnerabilities, attack vectors and solutions in the internet of things (IoT). IETE Journal of Research, 69(6), 3368–3397.
https://doi.org/10.1080/03772063.2021.1963421

5. Title: A Honeypot-driven Cyber Incident Monitor: Lessons Learned and Steps Ahead
Citation:
Vasilomanolakis, E., Karuppayah, S., Kikiras, P., & Mühlhäuser, M. (2015). A honeypot-driven cyber incident monitor: lessons learned and steps ahead. In Proceedings of the 8th International Conference on Security of Information and Networks (SIN ’15), 21–26.
https://doi.org/10.1145/2799979.2800001

Conclusion:

Shankar Karuppayah presents a well-rounded profile indicative of a highly capable and impactful researcher. His strong academic background, significant research contributions, leadership experience, international exposure, and dedication to both the academic and practical aspects of cybersecurity make him a highly suitable candidate for a Best Researcher award. His work not only advances the field but also demonstrates a commitment to broader societal impact through awareness and industry collaboration.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Shankar Karuppayah | Cybersecurity | Best Researcher Award