The CyberAI project focuses on the intersection of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI). We seek to understand how advances in AI may alter the current state of cybersecurity and, conversely, how the cybersecurity of AI systems affects their safe and trusted development, fielding and operations.    

Our research addresses:

• The role of AI in cybersecurity: Machine learning and artificial intelligence are increasingly important components of cyber analysis and cybersecurity, and may play a significant role in future cyber attacks. We seek to understand the technical capabilities of AI systems as applied to cyber tasks, their limitations, and the most likely role that AI will play in the cyber systems of the future. This information can help policymakers understand what they can do to foster innovation in new technologies that can guard against the next generation of cyber attacks.
• The geopolitics of AI in cyber operations: Many countries have shown increased interest in leveraging machine learning for cybersecurity. Our research examines how machine learning is being studied for cyber operations around the world. We also study how new advances in AI-powered cyber tools could be destabilizing, whether AI innovations in cybersecurity are offense-biased or defense-biased, and how these developments may ultimately shape geopolitics.
• The vulnerabilities of AI: The data used to train AI algorithms — and the resulting models — remain susceptible to adversarial attacks. Without a strong cybersecurity framework, AI capabilities remain vulnerable to attacks targeting the integrity, confidentiality and availability of the data upon which they rely. These systems are also vulnerable to manipulation of their predictions or recommendations. As algorithms obtain increasingly important roles in society, a robust cybersecurity fabric must be created to protect their outputs and all that depends upon them.

CyberAI is directed by John Bansemer. Prior to joining CSET, John served in a variety of cyber, space and intelligence positions within the U.S. Air Force before retiring as a Lieutenant General. His last position was Assistant Director for National Intelligence, Partner Engagement, within the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. In addition to his role with CSET, he serves as an adjunct professor at Georgetown University.