CPS: Synergy: Collaborative Research: Towards Secure Networked Cyber-Physical Systems: A Theoretic Framework with Bounded Rationality
Lead PI:
Saroj Biswas
Co-Pi:
Abstract
Securing critical networked cyber-physical systems (NCPSs) such as the power grid or transportation systems has emerged as a major national and global priority. The networked nature of such systems renders them vulnerable to a range of attacks both in cyber and physical domains as corroborated by recent threats such as the Stuxnet worm. Developing security mechanisms for such NCPSs significantly differs from traditional networked systems due to interdependence between cyber and physical subsystems (with attacks originating from either subsystem), possible cooperation between attackers or defenders, and the presence of human decision makers in the loop. The main goal of this research is to develop the necessary science and engineering tools for designing NCPS security solutions that are applicable to a broad range of application domains. This project will develop a multidisciplinary framework that weaves together principles from cybersecurity, control theory, networking and criminology. The framework will include novel security mechanisms for NCPSs founded on solid control-theoretic and related notions, analytical tools that allow incorporation of bounded human rationality in NCPS security, and experiments with real-world attack scenarios. A newly built cross-institutional NCPS simulator will be used to evaluate the proposed mechanisms in realistic environments. This research transcends specific cyber-physical systems domains and provides the necessary tools to building secure and trustworthy NCPSs. The broader impacts include a new infrastructure for NCPS research and education, training of students, new courses, and outreach events focused on under-represented student groups.
Saroj Biswas

Saroj Biswas, Ph.D., is a Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Temple University, Philadelphia, specializing in control and optimization of dynamic systems, multiagent systems, power systems, and distributed parameter systems.  His current research focuses on security of cyber-physical systems with applications to power grid, and the development of an intelligent virtual laboratory for electrical machines.  He has also developed a control theoretic framework for modeling and control of magnetic signatures.  Dr. Biswas is the author or co-author of over 100 research articles in refereed journals or conferences, and has been involved with funded research from various federal sources and industries.   He also serves as an Associate Editor of Dynamics of Continuous, Discrete and Impulsive Systems, Series B, and is a member of IEEE, ASEE, and Sigma Xi.

 

 

 

Performance Period: 01/01/2015 - 12/31/2017
Institution: Temple University
Sponsor: National Science Foundation
Award Number: 1446574