Prof. Pete Burnap
Pete is Professor of Data Science and Cybersecurity in the School of Computer Science (Cardiff University) and Director of the Cardiff Centre for Cyber Security Research, an Academic Centre of Excellence recognised by the National Cyber Security Centre and EPSRC. He is also the founding Director of the Wales Cyber Innovation Hub, a major Welsh Government and CCR-funded initiative designed to position Wales as a global leader in cybersecurity by creating new start ups, attracting investment, and expanding the region’s cyber skills base.
An internationally recognised researcher, Pete has led more than £23m in research grants and specialises in cyber security analytics the intersection of AI, cybersecurity, and risk. His work has produced pioneering advances in automated cyber defence, including the first peer-reviewed machine-learning approach to predicting cyber-attacks within seconds, techniques that dramatically reduce ransomware impact, and methods to secure AI systems used in critical national infrastructure. He also leads Airbus’ global Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security Analytics, where his research has translated into operational tools for industry.
Pete plays a leading role in national research and policy, heading the Safety Critical Systems theme within the £14m PETRAS National Centre of Excellence and serving as a member of the UK Government’s AI Council. Alongside his technical work, he is deeply engaged in socio-technical security research, co-directing the Social Data Science Lab and HateLab to better understand and mitigate online harms such as hate speech, malicious content, and risks to social safety.
