A University of Wollongong (UOW) cybersecurity researcher has been awarded a 2026 Fulbright Scholar Award to undertake international research in the United States, as the university simultaneously prepares to host a US academic through the same program.
Distinguished Professor Willy Susilo, Director of UOW’s Institute of Cybersecurity and Cryptology, will collaborate with Florida Polytechnic University on research focused on cybersecurity challenges affecting cloud computing infrastructure and global digital systems.
His project will explore ways to strengthen the security of cloud environments, improve interoperability between connected systems and better align emerging cryptographic technologies with international standards and regulatory frameworks.
Professor Susilo said international cooperation is essential to addressing cybersecurity threats that increasingly span national boundaries.
“Cybersecurity challenges do not stop at national borders and international collaboration is essential in addressing these complex issues,” he said. “I am proud to be part of a program that prioritises exchange, partnership and shared knowledge.”
An Australian Research Council Laureate Fellow, Professor Susilo leads research in advanced cryptography, cloud security and privacy-preserving technologies. His recent work includes a NATO-funded research project focused on protecting drones from cyberattacks and support from the Australian Economic Accelerator Ignite program to develop artificial intelligence technologies that embed security into software code generation.
At the same time, UOW will host Professor Elizabeth Shanahan from Montana State University as a Fulbright Scholar in Residence.
Professor Shanahan, a political scientist, studies the role of narrative in policy development, risk communication and public health governance. While at UOW she will collaborate with Associate Professor Chris Degeling on research examining public attitudes toward zoonotic disease prevention policies, including those related to avian influenza and Hendra virus.
The project will also examine the implementation of “One Health” approaches in Australia — a framework that integrates human, animal and environmental health to manage emerging infectious diseases.
Professor Shanahan said the collaboration comes at a time when global health systems are reassessing their approach to pandemic risk following COVID-19 and other emerging disease threats.
UOW Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) Professor Alan Rowan said the university’s participation in the Fulbright exchange program on both sides highlights the strength of its international research partnerships.
Established in 1946, the Fulbright Program is one of the world’s most prominent academic exchange initiatives, supporting research collaboration between Australia and the United States. The 2026 Fulbright scholars were formally recognised at a ceremony held at Parliament House in Canberra.
