Security Research
Research conducted in controlled lab environments focused on defensive strategy, threat modeling, and risk analysis.
Post-Quantum Cryptography Research Project
Mercyhurst University
February 2024 – April 2024
Overview
Co-authored a research paper analyzing emerging quantum and post-quantum cryptographic standards, with emphasis on real-world protocol integration and long-term security implications.
Environment
- Academic research environment
- Standards documentation review (NIST publications)
- Protocol analysis of publicly documented implementations
Objectives
- Analyze the impact of quantum computing on classical cryptographic systems
- Evaluate NIST post-quantum cryptography finalists
- Examine real-world adoption of post-quantum key exchange mechanisms
Implementation
Conducted structured analysis of the NIST finalist CRYSTALS-Kyber, focusing on its lattice-based construction and resistance to quantum adversaries.
Evaluated integration into:
- Signal’s Post-Quantum Extended Diffie-Hellman (PQXDH) protocol
- Apple’s PQ3 post-quantum messaging enhancements
Compared implementation tradeoffs including performance, key sizes, and forward secrecy considerations.
Security Considerations
- Long-term confidentiality risks posed by quantum adversaries
- Hybrid key exchange models combining classical + post-quantum primitives
- Migration challenges for large-scale secure messaging platforms
Outcome
Delivered a co-authored research paper detailing cryptographic transition strategies and real-world adoption pathways.
Strengthened applied understanding of cryptographic standards, protocol design tradeoffs, and future-proofing secure communications.