We conduct world-class research into all areas of information and cyber security, and boast a world-leading group of academics and experts from industry.
Royal Holloway has been recognised as a UK Government Academic Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security Research (ACE-CSR). The ISG is at the forefront in the interdisciplinary field of information and cyber security, offering independent expertise in a field where trust and integrity are paramount.
Our research is organised across three intersecting core areas - Cryptography, People and Society, and Systems - that include dedicated specialist centres, laboratories, and research groups. These take advantage of the group's interdisciplinary nature to tackle major challenges in many different areas of information and cyber security. Find out more about our research themes below. Our dynamic research environment is supported by a range of research seminars and working groups.
The ISG has over 20 permanent research-active members of academic staff, as well as a number of distinguished visiting professors and consultants. Alongside this, we have several postdoctoral researchers and a vibrant PhD student research community, including our Centre for Doctoral Training in Cyber Security for the Everyday.
Core Areas
Cryptography
The Cryptography Group was formally founded in May 2021. However, the history of cryptography in the Information Security Group goes back to at least 1987, making it one of the oldest academic groups working in cryptography.
Get in touch with the core lead, Dr Christian Weinert.
People and Society
The ISG is home to a wide range of research focusing on the protection and wellbeing of people in digitally-mediated contexts. Our people and society research practices include participatory and speculative design, ethnography, examining (geo)politics, as well as developing collaborative engagements across a wide range of disciplines. Groups within this theme include:
- Ethnography Group
- Interdisciplinary Security Collective
- Information Politics Studio
Get in touch with core lead, Dr Andrew Dwyer.
Systems
The ISG conducts systems research focused on developing secure, reliable, and usable technologies. Our work addresses challenges such as malware, software vulnerabilities, and risks in platforms including smart cards, contactless payments, and connected devices. Drawing on expertise in software, hardware, and data analysis, we design solutions that strengthen security while maintaining usability. This research underpins safer digital infrastructures, ensuring that security measures are effective, practical, and aligned with the needs of organisations and society
- The Smart Card and Internet of Things Security Centre
- Systems and Software Security Research Lab (S3 Lab)
- Usable Security and Privacy Laboratory
Get in touch with core lead, Dr Jassim Happa.
