UMBC Cyber Defense Lab

Tech Talk with the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA)

James Curry

Lead Engineer – Cyber Security Range
IDC – Cyber Workforce Development Division
Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA)

12:00–1:00pm, Friday, 22 September 2017, ITE 228, UMBC

A broad reaching brief on some of the technical aspects of DISA’s role as a combat support agency within the Department of Defense. Topics will include Scalability and the challenges of Big Data Analytics, Interoperability of systems, Visualization, Incident Response and Digital Forensics, Challenges with Classification Guidance, Supply Chain Risk Management, and Software Defined Networks/Infrastructure as a Service. Attendees are highly encouraged to ask questions.

James Curry is DISA’s Lead Engineer for the Cyber Security Range (CSR), which is chartered to develop and host a realistic DoD Information Network (DODIN) environment for Training, Testing, or Exercises. In this position, he has designed and built fully virtual implementations of DISA’s Internet Access Points (IAPs) and its Joint Regional Security Stack (JRSS), enabling the DoD Workforce to train in an IaaS on-demand environment that realistically matches DISA’s core infrastructure. He is a Scholarship for Service (SFS) recipient (2008-2009) and received his Masters and Bachelors of Science in Computer Science from New Mexico Tech. Email:

Host: Alan T. Sherman,

The UMBC Cyber Defense Lab meets biweekly Fridays. All meetings are open to the public.

Learn important cybersecurity skills in NSA’s Codebreaker Challenge

NSA’s fifth annual Codebreaker Challenge is a hands-on, software reverse engineering challenge in which students work to complete mission-focused objectives and push their university to the top of the competition leaderboard.

The contest asks undergraduate and graduate students to do hands-on exercises that will help them develop their reverse-engineering and low-level code analysis skills while working to solve a sequence of realistic, yet fictitious, problems.  The fictional backstory involves a request from the Department of Homeland Security for assistance investigating unusual network activity within a large supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system.

Feedback from previous iterations of the challenge showed that students were able to learn a great deal from participating. Each student receives a slightly different set of challenge binaries and associated files, so that one student’s solution won’t work for someone else. The binaries are similar enough so that students can work together to understand the problems and   develop approaches to solutions and hen implement them independently and register their results.

UMBC students did well, both individually and as a group, in pervious challenges.  Let’s make it to the top of the leaderboard this year.

• The challenge is hosted at https://codebreaker.Ltsnet.net
• The challenge began on September 15th and end on December 31st
• Students register for the challenge at2017 Codebreaker Challenge using their umbc.edu email addresses
• The challenge website has nine lectures on reverse engineering, so students with little coding or cybersecurity experience can participate

CSEE Alumna Lauren Mazzoli chosen for UMBC Alumni Association Rising Star award

Each year, the UMBC Alumni Association celebrates UMBC graduates and faculty who have made outstanding contributions to the University, their fields, and their communities. This year, CSEE Alumna Lauren Mazzoli was chosen for the Rising Star award, which is given to an outstanding undergraduate alumna/us of the last decade who has demonstrated professional achievement.

Lauren received B.S. degrees in both Computer Science and Mathematics in 2015 and completed a, M.S. degree in Computer Science at UMBC in 2017. As an undergraduate, she was in the first cohort of UMBC’s Cyber Scholars and was a CWIT affiliate. After completing her undergraduate studies, she joined Northrop Grumman as a Cyber Software Engineer and continued her studies in the UMBC Computer Science M.S. program. This summer she was selected for Northrop Grumman’s Future Technical Leaders Program, which is aimed at identifying and investing in Northrop Grumman’s next generation of technologists and leaders.

Lauren has been active as an alumna in supporting UMBC and its programs. She created and ran a semester-long Cyber Competition that was supported by Northrop Grumman for UMBC’s Cyber Scholars and Affiliates and participated in several on-campus activities to strengthen the relationship and interactions between Northrop Grumman and UMBC. She is currently on the board for Northrop Grumman’s Women’s International Network, and was the Lead of the Professional Development Group’s Community Outreach Activities. She has also spoken at, or been a panelist in, a number professional events.

All members of the UMBC community are invited to join the UMBC Alumni Association in celebrating the 2017 award recipients at the 2017 Alumni Awards Ceremony on Thursday, October 5 at 6:30 p.m. in the Earl and Darielle Linehan Concert Hall.

UMBC Cyber Defense Lab

Results from the SFS Summer Research Study at UMBC

Enis Golaszewski, UMBC

12:00–1:00pm, Friday, 8 September 2017
ITE 228 (or nearby), UMBC

In summer 2017, UMBC held a cybersecurity research workshop that featured the UMBC Scholarship For Service (SFS) cohort working with the cooperation of the UMBC Department of Information Technology (DoIT) to analyze the security of NetAdmin, a software tool developed and used by DoIT. The workshop included six new SFS scholars transferring to UMBC from Montgomery College and Prince George’s Community College and provided students with experience in analyzing the security of software while uncovering serious flaws in the NetAdmin tool. NetAdmin allows authorized research faculty at UMBC to make research servers running on campus accessible to connections originating from off-campus.

Because NetAdmin directly modifies the campus firewall, possible security weaknesses in its architecture, implementation, or usage could present a significant risk to UMBC computer systems. During the four-day study, students uncovered multiple critical security flaws and developed recommendations for mitigating them. These flaws include architectural weaknesses, injection attack vulnerabilities, and susceptibility to man-in-the-middle attacks. The workshop was successful for improving the security of NetAdmin as well as integrating the incoming SFS scholars with the existing UMBC cohort.

In this talk, we will focus on the technical details of our security analysis of the NetAdmin tool.

Enis Golaszewski is a PhD student and SFS scholar in computer science working with Dr. Sherman on protocol analysis and the security of software-defined networks. Email:

Host: Alan T. Sherman,

Baltimore Sun highlights UMBC programs that prepare students for high-demand careers

The latest special section on education in The Baltimore Sun highlights several UMBC programs that prepare students to succeed in careers in rapidly growing and already high-demand industries. The Sun highlights how the flexibility of these programs makes them particularly accessible and valuable to students, allowing students to tailor their pathway to match specific areas of interest.

Marc Olano, associate professor of computer science and electrical engineering and director of the game development track in computer science, described UMBC’s multiple pathways for learning game development. “We created two programs, the game development track in computer science and the animation and interactive media concentration in visual arts,” he explained. “In both cases, the students get a degree in the primary discipline, a B.S. in computer science or a B.A. or B.F.A. in visual arts,” he noted. The “track” system helps students focus their electives specifically on skills “that are used in the games industry.”

Jacqueline Wojcik ‘17, visual arts, who completed a concentration in animation and interactive media and a minor in computer science, shared her experience as a member of UMBC’s Game Developers Club. Collaborating with other students in the club helped her apply skills she learned in the classroom to other creative opportunities. For the coming year, Wojcik has received a Fulbright research grant to complete an innovative project in Oslo, Norway. “I will create digital models from two Viking Age ship burials and then place in interactive, game-like environments so that people can see how the artifacts would have used in the lives of their owners,” she told the Sun. “The project will explore the intersection of games, learning and archeological visualization.”

The education section also highlighted UMBC programs in health information technology and cybersecurity.

The health IT program prepares professionals with backgrounds in computer science, information systems, and health care for growing opportunities in work to prevent medical errors, improve care delivery, and address other major health care challenges through technology. “Not only does it provide students with technical information technology skills, but it also provides a pragmatic understanding of the health care system, which has its own terminology,” explains Krystl Haerian ‘99, biological science, an instructor in the program.

Laura Humber ‘16, health administration and policy, a current student in the health IT master’s program, says that she didn’t think she would end up pursuing an advanced degree in such a technical-sounding field, but she came to realize it could help her take the next steps in a research career focused on addressing opioid addiction. “People think when you say, ‘IT’ that you’re dealing with computers, but it’s making computers work for you and get you the information you need,” Humber explained.

Rick Forno, assistant director of UMBC’s Center for Cybersecurity and director of the graduate cybersecurity program, described in the Sun how UMBC’s cybersecurity graduate programs are also designed work across fields and to connect students with skills that will help them advance their careers. He noted that at UMBC, studying cybersecurity can include courses in economics, public policy, and biotechnology. “Pick a field or major, and cybersecurity applies to it,” he said. “It really is interdisciplinary.”

Students are encouraged to tailor the program to their interests, and gain experience through research and internship opportunities, so they can explore the full range of career opportunities available to them.“You can go to grad school and get a degree and get a job,” Forno reflected. “But we want you to be a professional. You can do more than just your degree. There’s depth to what we offer.”

Read the full education section in The Baltimore Sun.

This post was adapted from a UMBC News artcle written by Megan Hanks. Banner image: The game developers club display in House of Grit at UMBC’s 50th Anniversary celebration. Photo by freelance photographer.

Applications sought for major UMBC cybersecurity scholarships

NSF CyberCorps: Scholarship For Service (SFS)

Scholarships for careers in cybersecurity. Earn full tuition, fees, stipends ($22,500 – $34,000), and more ($2000 books, up to $3000 health benefits, $4000 professional expenses).  For BS, MS, MPS, or PhD in CS, CE, IS, Cyber or related fields. USA citizenship or permanent residency required. Contact Dr. Alan Sherman,  who will send you an application.

In academic year 2017-2018, UMBC will support a total of about six additional SFS Scholars at the BS, MS, MPS, and PhD levels in CS and related fields. Each scholarship is potentially for up to the final two years (three years for PhD and combined BS/MS). Interested full-time degree students should contact Dr. Alan Sherman and visit the CISA scholarship page.

Each scholarship covers full tuition, fees, travel, books, and academic year stipend of $34,000 for MS/MPS/PhD, and $22,500 for BS. Applicants must be US citizens or permanent residents capable of obtaining a SECRET or TOP SECRET clearance. Each scholar must work for the federal, state, local, or tribal government (for pay) for one year for each year of award.

Awards made for 2017-2018 will be for one year only, with the potential of renewal if funding permits (we should know by August 31, 2017).  The number of awards to be made will be determined by available funds, since there are differences in costs depending on level and in-state status (we have approximately $352,000 to award in 2017-2018).

All applications must be submitted in paper form with official transcripts and signed original letters on letterhead—no staples, folders, or binders.

Application Deadline: 12noon, Friday, July 14, 2017.   If positions remain open after the deadline, we will continue to accept applications until classes start.

See https://www.sfs.opm.gov/  and http://www.cisa.umbc.edu for more details.

bwtech@UMBC’s International Cybersecurity Center Launch

bwtech@UMBC will hold a launch event for its new International Cybersecurity Center from 9:00 to 10:30am on Thursday, 6 July 2017 at UMBC’s bwtech Cyber Incubator (5520 Research Park Drive, Suite 110, Catonsville, MD 21228).

The iCyberCenter@bwtech is a US market entry training and incubation program for overseas cybersecurity entrepreneurs that is offered in two parts. The first is a CEO-level Executive Training Program for overseas cyber entrepreneurs, which is an intensive, week-long course to help international cyber business leaders accelerate their understanding of the US cyber market and develop the most effective US market entry business strategies. The second is a mentored, year long US Market Entry Incubator Program that provides ongoing market entry and development support for qualifying overseas companies within the bwtech@UMBC Cyber Incubator.

Attend the iCyberCenter launch to learn more about its exciting new international programs and how you can get involved. It is looking for subject matter experts, professional service provider partners, sponsors, and supporters to help with the innovative and exciting program. Light breakfast will be served. RSVP for the event here.

UMBC Data Science Graduate Programs

UMBC’s Data Science Master’s program prepares students from a wide range of disciplinary backgrounds for careers in data science. In the core courses, students will gain a thorough understanding of data science through classes that highlight machine learning, data analysis, data management, ethical and legal considerations, and more.

Students will develop an in-depth understanding of the basic computing principles behind data science, to include, but not limited to, data ingestion, curation and cleaning and the 4Vs of data science: Volume, Variety, Velocity, Veracity, as well as the implicit 5th V — Value. Through applying principles of data science to the analysis of problems within specific domains expressed through the program pathways, students will gain practical, real world industry relevant experience.

The MPS in Data Science is an industry-recognized credential and the program prepares students with the technical and management skills that they need to succeed in the workplace.

Why Data Science?

• Organizations have a growing need for employees who are experts in the management and interpretation of big data;
• Our classes are taught by industry experts who combine their professional experience with theory to provide a rigorous classroom experience; and
• Our small classes are taught with a mix of in-person and online instruction, providing students the best of an in-classroom experience while allowing for work-school life balance.

Why UMBC?

The Data Science graduate program at UMBC is designed to respond to the growing regional and national demand for professionals with data science knowledge, skills, and abilities. Bringing together faculty from a wide range of fields who have a deep understanding of the real-world applications of data analytics, UMBC’s Data Science program prepares students for the workplace through hands-on experience, rigorous academics, and access to a robust network of knowledgeable industry professionals. UMBC’s graduate programs in Data Science offers a wide variety of benefits:

• Exceptional faculty. The Data Science curriculum brings together UMBC’s Departments of Computer Science & Electrical Engineering, Information Systems, Mathematics and Statistics, and several departments from the social sciences to provide students with a rigorous and thorough base of knowledge. Faculty have particular strengths in addressing critical social questions through the application of data science.
• Rigorous research. UMBC is classified by the Carnegie Foundation as a Research University (High Research Activity).
• National recognition. For six years running (2009-2014), UMBC was ranked #1 in the U.S. News and World Report’s list of “national up-and-coming” universities
• Convenient classes. Classes are conveniently offered in the evening on UMBC’s main campus, located just ten minutes from BWI Airport, with easy access to I-95 and the 695 Beltway

For more information and to apply online, see the Data Science MPS site.

Ahead of final exams this spring, nearly 200 students gathered at UMBC for “Innovate Good,” a hackathon co-hosted by HackUMBC and The Shriver Center, UMBC’s hub for service-learning, civic engagement, and community-based service delivery. During the 24-hour tech innovation marathon, students collaborated to build mobile, web, and hardware projects focused on solving problems and creating positive social outcomes. Four overarching categories inspired participants in their tech development: health and environment, housing, legal and justice, and education.

Collaborating with The Shriver Center to host the hackathon was an exciting experience, says Celeste Wong ‘18, computer science, co-president of HackUMBC. “There were different aspects to the hackathon we had to think about and work through since we’ve never done a social good Hackathon,” she explained. “In the end it was very rewarding to see students who are passionate about different areas of social justice. Seeing the participants demo and explain their projects really showcased their passion and heart for others at our school and in our community.”

Rick Forno, assistant director for UMBC’s Center for Cybersecurity and director of the Cybersecurity Graduate Program, serves as faculty advisor of the HackUMBC student organization. “Hackathons like HackUMBC are diverse, high-energy events that bring together novices, experts, and mentors to share and apply their knowledge, skills, and personal enthusiasm toward exploring the world of technology and/or developing innovative solutions with technology,” he says. He was delighted at the success of this first themed HackUMBC event in bringing together participants with diverse interests, experiences, and perspectives.

Hannah Schmitz, program coordinator of public service scholars programs in The Shriver Center, agreed, sharing, “So often we see a divide between ‘techie’ and ‘non-techie’ students. The Shriver Center and HackUMBC designed ‘Innovate Good’ to bridge that divide, bringing students together to harness their skills and experiences to co-create interdisciplinary solutions to social challenges.” She explained, “Participants had a chance to collaborate with students with varying disciplinary perspectives, and had an opportunity to learn from, work with, and teach each other.”

An “expo” portion toward the end of the event gave participants an the opportunity to share the hacks that they developed with their peers and receive feedback from faculty judges.

“It’s our hope that each participant walked away with new skill sets and a deepened interest in using their talents to make an impact in their community,” says Schmitz.

For more information about upcoming hackathons at UMBC, visit the HackUMBC website.

Adapted from a UMBC News article by Megan Hanks; header image: Students presenting their hacks at the “expo” portion of the hackathon. All photos by Marlayna Demond ’11 for UMBC.

CSEE Professor Anupam Joshi talking in front of UMBC’s π² Immersive Hybrid Reality display

Professor of the Practice
Graduate Program Director, Data Science

Department of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering
University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC)

The Department of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) invites applications for a full time, non-tenure track Professor of the Practice position at its Catonsville, MD main campus.

Responsibilities: Reporting to the Chair of the Department of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, this position serves as the Graduate Program Director of UMBC’s program leading to a master’s degree in Data Science. This cross-disciplinary program is offered to professional students through a partnership between the College of Engineering and Information Technology; the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences; the College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences; the Department of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering; and UMBC’s Division of Professional Studies (DPS). The incumbent will teach at least two courses per semester in the program. In addition to teaching, among other faculty duties, the incumbent will oversee curriculum and instruction; recruit and supervise qualified part-time faculty; collaborate with DPS on program marketing, student recruitment and retention activities; advise students; pursue business development opportunities with industry; manage UMBC’s Data Science Advisory Board; and carry out the necessary administrative duties associated with academic program oversight.

Salary: Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, and includes regular university benefits.

About UMBC: UMBC’s campus is located on 500 acres just off I-95 between Baltimore and Washington DC, and less than 10 minutes from the BWI airport and Amtrak station. The campus includes the bwtech@UMBC research and technology park, which has special programs for startups focused on cybersecurity, clean energy, life sciences and training. We are surrounded by one of the greatest concentrations of commercial, cultural and scientific activity in the nation. Located at the head of the Chesapeake Bay, Baltimore has all the advantages of modern, urban living, including professional sports, major art galleries, theaters and a symphony orchestra. The city’s famous Inner Harbor is an exciting center for entertainment and commerce. The nation’s capital, Washington, DC, is a great tourist attraction with its historical monuments and museums. Just ten minutes from downtown Baltimore and 30 from the D.C. Beltway, UMBC offers easy access to the region’s attractions by car or public transportation.

Qualifications: Earned doctoral degree or anticipated completion of a doctoral program in a relevant field within one year of hire. Preference will be given to applicants with at least five years of relevant professional experience, preferably as a data scientist. Teaching experience in classroom and/or on-line environments for industry-oriented graduate programs is desired. Candidates should have strong organizational, management, and public communication skills.

Application Instructions: For best consideration, submit a cover letter, a brief statement of teaching, academic, industrial or government experience, complete CV, and three professional or academic references by 1 July 2017 via Interfolio. Document review and selection of candidates will start immediately. Position will remain open until filled. Emailed applications will not be accepted.

We are committed to inclusive excellence and innovation and welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. UMBC is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.