"Topic: Emerging Topics in Hardware Security: Innovations in Chiplet Security, Obfuscation, Security Primitives and Post-Quantum Cryptography”
Speaker:
Dr. Zain Ul Abideen, Researcher, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), Pittsburgh, PA
Abstract:
As the global semiconductor industry faces evolving challenges, ensuring the security and reliability of hardware systems has become paramount. This talk presents cutting-edge advancements in hardware security, focusing on key areas, including chiplet-based architectures, Universal Circuit (UC)-based obfuscation, post-quantum cryptography (PQC), and AI-enhanced security-closure and hardware design.
The presenter will explore innovative solutions such as the Distributed Root of Trust (DRoT) for secure and resilient chiplet systems, methodologies for UC-based obfuscation to counter IC supply chain threats, and robust PQC hardware accelerators designed to withstand side-channel and fault injection attacks. Furthermore, the role of AI/ML in streamlining security-aware design flows and enhancing the resilience of hardware primitives like Physical Unclonable Functions (PUFs) and True Random Number Generators (TRNGs) will be highlighted.
The session will also present a roadmap for the future, outlining strategies to integrate these technologies into scalable design methodologies and demonstrating their practical viability through silicon demonstrations. Attendees will gain insights into the transformative potential of these approaches and their implications for securing next-generation technologies, including AI, IoT, and autonomous systems.
Biography:
Zain Ul Abideen is a researcher in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), Pittsburgh, PA, USA. He earned his Ph.D. in Information and Communication Technology from Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia. His research focuses on advancing cutting-edge innovations in hardware security, trustworthy integrated circuit (IC) design, and secure-aware ACD flow, combining academic rigor with impactful contributions to the field.
His research interests span a variety of critical areas within hardware security, including Secure ASIC Design, Physical Unclonable Functions (PUFs), True Random Number Generators (TRNGs), Post-Quantum Cryptography, and the development of reliable and fault-tolerant systems. Additionally, he explores the role of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (ML/AI) in chip design and techniques for defending against side-channel attacks.
Zain Ul Abideen has designed several chips and worked on EU and US-funded projects, such as those funded by NSF, EU Horizon, Synopsys, Siemens, and Intel. Through his work, he aims to advance both the theoretical and practical aspects of hardware security, driving innovation in the design of resilient and secure hardware solutions.
The Research Presentation is open to the public free of charge.
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