KENNESAW, Ga. | Sep 25, 2024

A 2023 cybersecurity breach that compromised the data of 37 million T-Mobile customers highlights the need for better privacy solutions, something Kennesaw State University’s Xinyue Zhang is working to deliver.

Zhang’s research focuses on the crucial intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity. Her goal is to develop secure AI models that not only protect personal information, but also reduce energy use.

“AI is everywhere now. Smartphones, watches, computers, you name it. My research focuses on how we can protect our data privacy while using these technologies,” Zhang said. Her research is being funded with a $173,754 grant from the National Science Foundation.

Zhang’s research focuses on federated learning, which allows AI models to work across multiple devices without sharing data, and NextG networks, which are the next generation of wireless technology offering faster and more reliable connections. Her goal is to create a federated learning system that overcomes specific vulnerabilities of current systems that leaves data vulnerable to privacy breaches. The proposed system would improve data transmission security and confine AI training of individual phones, computers and other devices to those devices to prevent cyberattacks.

Zhang’s academic journey began at Beijing Jiaotong University in Beijing, China, where she pursued her bachelor’s degree. During her undergraduate studies, she joined a double degree program between Beijing Jiaotong University and KU Leuven in Belgium. After completing her undergraduate education, she was admitted to the University of Houston for her Ph.D. studies.

Her doctoral studies at the University of Houston shaped her future focus. During her Ph.D. studies, she recognized that AI was the future and decided to delve into AI research and a career in academia. Adjusting to life in Houston involved significant cultural changes, including learning to drive and managing daily life independently. Despite these challenges, the experience was enriching and allowed her to build a network of friends and supportive colleagues.

Zhang's decision to join KSU's faculty was driven by the university’s focus on undergraduate research and its supportive academic environment. She integrates her research into her advanced cryptography classes and is excited about future technology trends, especially quantum computing, which could transform AI by reducing training times and energy costs, though such advancements may be a decade away.

Zhang's success at KSU has been supported by colleagues and mentors, including KSU Computer Science Chair Professor Yong Pei and senior faculty members like professors Dan Lo and Selena He, whose guidance has been crucial to her career.

"Dr. Zhang’s groundbreaking research at the intersection of AI and cybersecurity is not only addressing critical data privacy challenges but also paving the way for more secure and energy-efficient technologies,” Dr. Pei said.

“Her innovative approach to federated learning and NextG networks exemplifies the forward-thinking mindset we value at Kennesaw State University, and her dedication to advancing these fields is truly inspiring."

Looking ahead, Zhang plans to continue her research, earn tenure, and establish a center for AI and privacy at KSU, reflecting her commitment to advancing technology and student success.

– Story by Raynard Churchwell

Photos by Matt Yung

A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its more than 47,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 7 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.