The International Congress on Cyberspace Intelligence and Health 2025

---

Prof.Chris Nugent
Head of School of Computing, Ulster University

Topic: Quantum-Resistant Cryptography in the Age of AI: Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract: The convergence of quantum computing and artificial intelligence presents both unprecedented challenges and opportunities for cybersecurity. As quantum computers approach practical viability, traditional cryptographic systems face existential threats, while AI-driven security mechanisms offer novel defensive capabilities. This keynote explores the current landscape of quantum-resistant cryptography, examining post-quantum cryptographic algorithms, lattice-based encryption, and AI-enhanced security protocols.

We will discuss the critical timeline for transitioning to quantum-safe systems, the role of machine learning in developing adaptive cryptographic solutions, and the emerging field of quantum machine learning for security applications. The talk will also address practical implementation challenges, including performance overhead, standardization efforts by NIST and other international bodies, and strategies for hybrid classical-quantum security architectures.

Key topics include: quantum threat assessment, AI-powered cryptanalysis detection, secure multi-party computation in quantum environments, and the development of quantum-resistant blockchain technologies. Real-world case studies from government, financial, and healthcare sectors will illustrate the urgent need for proactive quantum preparedness.

Biography: Chris is a full Professor of Biomedical Engineering and Head of School of Computing at Ulster University.

His research interests include the development and evaluation of technologies to support pervasive healthcare within smart environments. Specifically, this has involved research in the topics of mobile based reminding solutions, activity recognition and behaviour modelling and more recently technology adoption modelling. He is the director of the Pervasive Computing Research Centre, the co-Principal Investigator of the Connected Health Innovation Centre, the Principal Investigator at Ulster for the PWC Advanced Research and Engineering Centre and co-Investigator for the BT Ireland Innovation Centre.

In 2024 he was recognised on Stanford's top 2% most highly cited scientists and is currently ranked No. 1 internationally on Google Scholar for citations in the area of Ambient Assisted Living. In 2016 he was awarded a Senior Distinguished Research Fellowship by Ulster University.

Since 2008 has served as an Associate Editor for the Editorial Board of the IEEE Engineering Medicine and Biology Conference, Healthcare Information Systems Theme and he is currently serving as a member of Ireland’s Commission on Care for Older People.