CYBER-DEFENCE FELLOWSHIPS: Guillaume Dubuis

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

In parallel with my Master's studies, I was working in a research group at the HES-SO that was collaborating with the CYD Campus. My supervisor, Prof Philippe Jacquod, mentioned the fellowship opportunity to me and encouraged me to apply. This programme allowed me to immerse myself fully in three areas of great interest to me: machine learning, power grids, and cyber-security.

• What was your CYD Fellowship project about?

The power grid is one of the most important parts of the public infrastructure in a country. This cyber-physical system must operate reliably in the face of unexpected failures and external, malicious attacks. The aim of my project was to identify a dangerous intrusion by analysing the grid's physical flows.

• What were the advantages of conducting your Master Thesis project at the CYD Campus?

My predecessors have all cited the knowledge and expertise of the CYD Campus’ researchers as the main advantage, so I will mention two other points. The first one is the international perspective. The CYD Campus promotes an international outlook, attracting students and researchers from around the world. This exposure to different cultures and perspectives can enrich the research and expand your global network. The second point is related to professional development. The CYD Campus often hosts conferences and hackathons featuring renowned scholars and experts. Engaging in these events can help to develop professional skills, like communication, and to stay updated on the latest research trends.

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

No, I never dreamed of being in cyber-defence as a child, although I have always been interested in technology and computers.

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

Throughout my studies, I became increasingly interested in data analysis and machine learning. Cyber-defence links these two themes with the subject of my studies, the power grid. It was natural for me to turn to this field, and I plan to continue working in it.

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

What I have learnt from my scientific career so far is that it is essential to understand that tasks often take longer than expected. This requires patience, perseverance, and adaptability. Research can be unpredictable, and experiments do not always produce the expected results the first-time round.

Furthermore, it is just as important to recognise that even what might be considered “bad” results, different from what was expected, are still results. They contain valuable information that can be used to gain a deeper understanding of the subject in question, and they contribute to the iterative nature of scientific research.

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

I am delighted that I have been able to pass on my knowledge in the form of support courses aimed at Bachelor’s students. It is very satisfying to be able to set up a project and see the students' progress. And of course, receiving the CYD Master Thesis Fellowship is an enormous source of pride in my career.

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

Mountains hold a unique attraction for me, not only for the adrenaline of downhill biking or freeskiing, but also for the profound sense of tranquillity and wonder they inspire. That is why I spend most of my free time in the Alps. But it is not all about action, there are also moments of calm and appreciation of the landscape. Both science and mountains provide a profound sense of discovery and wonder.

• What were your expectations about the CYD Fellowship?

I was hoping to benefit from the knowledge of people I met on the CYD Campus and to improve my scientific skills. This was the case. Now I would like to contribute to advancing knowledge in the field of power grid cybersecurity by publishing the results of my thesis in a journal (work in progress...).

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

Once you have decided to apply, it is essential to align your skills with the CYD Campus’ projects. To do this, you need to select the Master's project topic that suits you best and then spend time finding out as much as you can about the subject. Do not hesitate to contact the potential project supervisor. A thorough understanding of the problem to be solved, its application to threats in Switzerland and what you can bring to the subject will greatly strengthen your application.