Defense Research at Northeastern University
Northeastern University is a leader in research that supports America’s national security. Northeastern researchers are doing groundbreaking work in areas such as explosives detection, cyber defense, robotics, and data security. The University is currently in the process of building a state-of-the-art research institute for homeland security at its Burlington campus, funded by alumnus George J. Kostas.
Security from Explosives and Chemical Threats
Faculty at Northeastern are pursuing world-class research on ways to detect explosives and chemical and gas attacks through advanced sensing technology; sophisticated methods for remote identification of suicide bombers; and new materials and construction processes to make structures more resistant to blast and impact affects. Our work is supported by two national research centers of excellence: The ALERT Center (Awareness and Localization of Explosives-Related Threats), and the Gordon Center for Subsurface Sensing and Imaging Systems.
Security from Cyber Attacks
Faculty in our Colleges of Computer and Information Sciences (CCIS), Engineering, and Science are collaborating on research to identify and address hardware and software vulnerabilities in a variety of digital communication points, from vital government, financial, and infrastructure networks to mobile devices and wireless data. Much of this research goes through the Institute for Information Assurance, an interdisciplinary center established by CCIS and the College of Engineering. Northeastern has been designated a Center of Excellence in Informational Assurance Research by the National Security Agency.
Security through Remote Surveillance and Robotics
Northeastern faculty members in engineering and the life sciences collaborate on integrating advanced sensing and imaging and data processing technologies with sophisticated vehicles able to conduct surveillance and defense functions in difficult or hazardous environments. These range from tiny helicopters and blimps for aerial missions to biomimetic marine robots designed to detect mines and other threats in coastal waters. Northeastern’s Marine Science Center is among the research centers supporting this work.