USC Information Sciences Institute (ISI) hosted a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) sponsored half-day National Conversation on future R&D plans – for both DHS S&T and across the entire federal R&D community – on June 4, 2015. Many experts responded to the call to contribute their ideas and unique perspectives on how to best develop the Trusted Cyber Future in this coordinated in-person meeting.
At the Los Angeles meeting, the discussion topics ranged from expanding designed-in security, moving-target tools, usability in cybersecurity, tailored trustworthy spaces, and more. Dr. Douglas Maughan, Director of the Cybersecurity Division (CSD) within the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate (DHS S&T), led the meeting. Also in attendance, Gregory Wigton, a Program Manager with DHS S&T CSD. The invited experts comprised of approximately 21 researchers and key stakeholders from industry, academia, and government.
The meeting objectives were to gain input and responses to questions that will help shape DHS S&T and federal cybersecurity research and development for the next 5 years.
Solicited, Top-Level Meeting Questions:
• What areas of research of the 2011 Federal R&D Strategic Plan do not need to be prioritized anymore?
• What objectives not included in the 2011 Federal R&D Strategic Plan should be a priority for federally funded R&D in cybersecurity in the 2015 Federal R&D Strategic Plan?
• What areas should DHS S&T focus on?
• Given the 2013/2014 requirements list, which of these areas do you consider most important for S&T to consider?
• What other “issues” need to be taken into account, e.g. transition?
The National Conversation is intended to bring together everyone to play a part in shaping the future of homeland security. Everyone, meaning: citizens, operational users, responders, industry, and academia. Spread the word! There are several ways to engage, including virtual idea exchange and virtual or in-person meetings.
The goal of these conversations or meetings is to foster exchange, from end-to-end, to develop sustainable action plans that will help keep our communities and those who protect them safe and resilient. The conversations encompass both public and private formats to assist in identifying new partners and real world requirements that are necessary in transferring technological solutions into the marketplace.
To learn how you can start a topic and engage in the dialogue, visit:
• www.dhs.gov/science-and-technology/join-conversation#
To review the notes from the USC ISI-hosted “A Trusted Cyber Future Discussion” – National Conversation, visit:
