Prof. Kavun leads new research group for digital security in Dresden!

Prof. Kavun leads new research group for digital security in Dresden!

On July 15, 2025, the Barkhausen Institute (BI) took an important step in research into the security of digital systems. The new research group called Secure Digital Systems (SDS) will be led by Prof. Dr.-Ing. Elif Bilge Kavun standing. With this expansion, BI is pursuing its long-term strategy of further expanding its focus on digital security. This initiative aims to make both classic computer systems and AI-based applications secure.

The main task of the research group is to develop holistic and practical solutions that can be applied in areas such as medical care and critical infrastructure. Loud TU Dresden The group will also examine the attack surfaces of digital systems and develop cryptographic methods and hardware solutions for security under hostile conditions.

Prof. Kavun: New impulses in research

Prof. Kavun, who is moving to BI from the University of Passau, has already gained extensive experience in the security of digital technologies. Her previous work included the Chair of Secure Intelligent Systems as well as positions at Infineon Technologies and the Horst Görtz Institute for IT Security at the Ruhr University Bochum. Her research interests include secure hardware architectures, resource-efficient cryptography and the protection of AI systems.

The appointment of Prof. Kavun will further strengthen the existing collaboration between the BI and the Technical University of Dresden. This is done with the aim of promoting technological sovereignty and trustworthiness. Developing secure systems is becoming increasingly critical as digital technologies are integrated into our daily lives.

Smart home and IT security

In the context of digital security, smart home systems are also becoming increasingly important. According to that Federal Office for Information Security (BSI), the term smart home includes networked devices in the living space that are responsible, among other things, for home automation and household appliances such as refrigerators and smart TVs. These systems offer practical benefits such as saving energy.

But with the advantages also come significant security risks. Many of the smart home devices are IoT devices and require strict security measures. First steps towards better security include regular software updates from manufacturers and activating automatic updates. Devices without current updates can pose a significant security risk.

Cryptographic measures in focus

Cryptography plays a fundamental role in implementing effective security solutions. The BSI emphasizes the need to continuously develop and evaluate cryptographic procedures in order to meet the requirements of secure IT systems. These procedures ensure the confidentiality, integrity and authenticity of digital information.

The collaboration of research institutes, such as the Barkhausen Institute, with the BSI's recommendations is crucial to creating modern, secure digital systems. Integrating security into the development of new technologies is essential to meet the challenges of the digital world.