CYBER-DEFENCE FELLOWSHIPS: Basil Ottinger

• How did you find out about the CYD Fellowships and what motivated you to apply?

I was looking for a Master Thesis opportunity in the area of Cyber Security in the industrial sector and didn’t have much success. Most security companies don’t seem to offer any thesis opportunities. I finally found an interesting thesis topic with the Network Security Lab at ETH Zurich. My supervisor encouraged me to apply for the Fellowship.

• What was your CYD Fellowship project about?

I am investigating the impact of a novel amplification attack on the Domain Name System (DNS), an absolutely critical infrastructure in today’s world. To that end, I am devising new methods to gather data on open resolver systems and performing measurements on a global scale.

• What were the advantages of conducting your master thesis project/doctoral project/post-doctoral project at the CYD Campus?

Having a mentor who is more practically oriented and well-connected in the industry is a great benefit. There are great opportunities for collaboration that I wouldn’t get from the purely academic side.

• Did you as a child dream of working in cyber-defence?

Yes, already at a young age, I was fascinated with and also slightly terrified of hacker stories. As I got older, and the world around me became more digitized, my interest only grew. Media articles of cyber incidents and books like “Blackout” by Mark Elsberg left a lasting impression. I didn’t want to be at the mercy of other people’s know-how but rather understand the threats, and what can be done about them, myself.

• What is driving you to pursue research in cyber-defence?

The world will not forego the comforts that came with digitization. They are here to stay, and some people are determined to make everything digital, even very sensitive processes. I would like to contribute to the effort of making such critical and sensitive systems more secure.

• What is the most important lesson you have learned in your scientific career so far?

Sometimes, research can be frustrating. You may invest hours only to come to the conclusion what you were trying to do does not work. But at other times, it can also be very rewarding and satisfying when you finally found a solution or know how to handle a problem.

• What are you most proud of in your career to date?

Probably my persistence in pursuing this career and how far I’ve come. I decided early on I would like to study Computer Science and go into Cyber Security, and I’ve never wavered or doubted this decision. And I’m very happy with my choice.

• Outside the lab, what do you enjoy doing most?

I like to work with my hands as a balance to my desk job. I enjoy DIY projects from carpentry and crafting to sowing and gardening. I also like the outdoors and the wilderness. Last summer, I designed and built out the interior of an old van and travelled with it to Northern Scandinavia. I also enjoy rock climbing and kayaking.

• What were your expectations about the CYD Fellowships?

I hope to experience a different angle on Cyber Security than the academic one taught at ETH. I am excited to get a view into the industry and more focused on practical considerations.

• Could you share some tips with future applicants who are considering applying for the CYD Fellowships?

Don’t be discouraged by the high demands and paperwork the CYD Campus requires during the application. Just try it. They offer a great opportunity.