In the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity, few individuals have made as profound an impact as Ujas Bhadani. With an impressive track record spanning AI-driven solutions, smart grid security, and email protection systems, Ujas is a leader whose work is shaping the future of digital security. In this interview, he shares insights into his journey, his innovations, and his vision for the future of cybersecurity.
You’ve made a significant mark in cybersecurity, especially in AI applications for email security and smart grids. Can you share how you first became interested in the field?
“My passion for cybersecurity was sparked during my undergraduate studies in computer engineering. I was fascinated by the vulnerabilities in network systems and how even the most complex infrastructures could be breached. It drove me to focus on network security, eventually leading me to pursue a Master’s in Cybersecurity at Northeastern University. My interest solidified when I realized how emerging technologies, like AI, could be used not just to identify threats but to anticipate and prevent them. That concept of proactive defense became a key driver of my research.”
What are some of the challenges you encountered when developing AI-driven cybersecurity solutions?
“One of the main challenges was balancing precision with adaptability. AI systems, particularly in cybersecurity, can struggle with the bias-variance tradeoff. If you make a model too complex, it might overfit, missing subtle signs of new types of attacks. Conversely, a simpler model may not detect enough. Developing systems that can intelligently learn and evolve in real-time without compromising on detection accuracy was a challenge, particularly in my work on email security using AI algorithms like NLP and the Isolation Forest.”
Speaking of AI and email security, your article “Advanced Email Security with NLP and the Isolation Forest Algorithm” has been widely acclaimed. Can you explain how this solution addresses current email security threats?
“Absolutely. Traditional email filters focus heavily on rule-based systems, but as phishing tactics evolve, these systems are no longer enough. My approach uses Natural Language Processing (NLP) to analyze the content of emails in real-time, identifying malicious intent based on anomalies in the language. I then paired it with the Isolation Forest algorithm, which helps identify outliers—emails that deviate from expected behavior patterns in a user’s inbox. This two-fold approach significantly enhances detection rates for phishing and spear-phishing attacks.”
You’ve also explored the security of smart grids, an area not many cybersecurity professionals delve into. What led you to this niche, and what have been your key findings?
“Smart grids are at the intersection of energy infrastructure and cyber-physical systems, making them highly vulnerable to attacks. So, I began to see just how exposed this sector is—especially as energy grids become increasingly digital. My research, particularly in my paper “Pillars of Power System and Security of Smart Grid,” highlights the threats to smart grids from cyber-attacks like advanced persistent threats (APT) and ransomware. I also proposed a layered defense model, which integrates AI to monitor and protect the grid’s operational systems in real-time. This not only helps in detection but also provides countermeasures to neutralize threats before they cause major disruptions.”
You’ve worked in various roles, from System Security Engineer to Cybersecurity Engineer, and now you’re also a researcher. How has your industry experience shaped your research, and vice versa?
“My industry experience has been invaluable in informing my research. When I worked as a System Security Engineer at a German firm, for example, I saw firsthand how theory translates into practice. You get a better understanding of the limitations and challenges that real-world systems face. This perspective has guided me to focus on practical, scalable solutions in my research, whether that’s developing AI models that can handle high volumes of data or designing security protocols that work in both small-scale and large-scale environments. On the flip side, my research has enabled me to offer innovative solutions during my industry roles”
In addition to your technical contributions, you’ve been recognized for your leadership and innovation. What are some accolades or roles that you’re particularly proud of?
“I’ve been fortunate to receive several awards, but I’m particularly proud of being recognized with the TCC-REX Karmaveer Global Young Leaders Fellowship and the Karmaveer Chakra Awards in partnership with United Nations. These honors reflect my belief in using cybersecurity to create a positive social impact. I also feel privileged to have judged cybersecurity projects for the 2024 Hudson County STEM Showcase. It’s incredibly rewarding to mentor the next generation of cybersecurity experts.”
What do you see as the next big challenge in cybersecurity, and how do you plan to address it in your future research?
“One of the biggest challenges we’ll face is the integration of AI with emerging technologies, like the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain, while ensuring robust security across interconnected systems. I’m particularly interested in how AI-assisted reverse engineering can be applied to solve cybersecurity challenges, especially in enhancing defenses for critical infrastructure. My future research will continue to explore AI’s potential to outpace attackers by not just reacting to threats but by predicting and neutralizing them before they fully form.”
What advice would you give to someone looking to break into the field of cybersecurity, especially in areas like AI and smart grid security?
“My advice would be to stay curious and adaptable. Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field, and you need to constantly learn and adapt to new challenges. Be open to working on interdisciplinary projects—understanding areas like AI, machine learning, and even electrical systems will give you a distinct edge. Lastly, practical experience is key. Whether it’s through internships, research projects, or competitions, applying what you learn in real-world scenarios will set you apart.”
