rESEArCH HIGHLIGHTS - Charlotte Research Institute - University ...

Grid computing is a technology that uses numerous networked computers spread across different locationsto work together on large, complex computational problems. This technology uses interactive visualizationas the “common picture” binding models, economic studies, exploratory analyses, and knowledge creationand involving multiple interacting 3D time-dependent fields.Phase I of the VisualGrid is nearing completion with the grid infrastructure in place, the basic networkcommunity formed, and initial visual analysis and environmental impact tools operating. During PhaseII, the operating environment will be greatly expanded with much more detailed simulations and analyses.When complete, the VisGrid will provide a set of capabilities available nowhere else that will be accessible tolocal, state, and regional governments.Center for Information Security and Assurance: Developing Technologies for a Safer TomorrowAs the world becomes increasingly dependent on cyberspace to accomplish everyday commerce, the threatof identity theft looms accordingly. UNC Charlotte’s Honeynet lab, funded by the financial servicesindustry, is designed to provide students with the opportunity to observe hackers in action so theycan identify and understand hacker behavior patterns. Faculty and students are partnering with the U.S.Secret Service, the local F.B.I. and the global Honeynet Research Alliance in attracting hackers and identitythieves to their “honey pot” so thatthey can learn how to protect financialservices consumers from identity theft.Dr. Gail-Joon Ahn (Software & Information Systems), middle, andPhD students Wenjuan Xu and Napoleon Paxton (NASA Harriet G.Jenkins Fellow) discuss network security and forensics involved infuture home network environments in the Woodward Hall FutureHome Network Testbed.The Center for Information Securityand Assurance continues to successfullyplace its graduates in promising careersin academic institutions and industry.Last year, a Ph.D. graduate won ateaching job at New Mexico Tech, afour-year, Ph.D. granting institution.Other recent graduates have beguncareers at Microsoft, IBM, or their ownstart-up companies.Other highlights for the College ofComputing and Informatics (CCI)include a 2006 Charlotte Business JournalDiversity in Business Award for Dr.Teresa Dahlberg (Computer Science),Director of the Diversity in TechnologyInstitute. Dr. Aidong Lu (Computer Science) received an Early Career Investigator award from the U.S.Department of Energy. Also in 2006, Ph.D. student Napoleon Paxton was one of twenty applicants out of athousand to win a coveted NASA Harriet G. Jenkins Fellowship award for post-graduate study in technologyfor three years. CCI hosted the Southeastern Regional Cyber Defense Competition and the IEEE VirtualReality Conference in March 2007.Visit: www.cci.uncc.edu/coit_new/site/index.cfm.15Research Highlights 2006-2007