Faculty/School

Faculty of Science

School of Information Systems

Topic status

We're looking for students to study this topic.

Research centre

Centre for Data Science

Primary Supervisor

Dr Gowri Ramachandran
Position
Senior Lecturer in Information Systems
Division / Faculty
Faculty of Science

Other QUT supervisors

External supervisors

  • Kat McCrabb, Flame Tree Cyber

Overview

This project investigates how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) can help automate cyber security risk assessments using the Australian Essential Eight Maturity Verification Tool. Students will explore techniques for analysing security evidence, interpreting compliance requirements, and generating assessment outcomes using AI. The project combines cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and software engineering, providing hands-on experience in developing intelligent tools for real-world security and governance challenges.

Research engagement

The student will conduct a literature review on current Essential Eight assessment practices and existing automation approaches. They will also assist in designing experiments, proposing digital solutions and evaluating the effectiveness of the proposed solution.

Research activities

Working with the supervisory team, the student will develop a sandbox environment to test the Essential Eight Maturity Verification Tool. They will investigate methods for automating tool execution and use AI techniques to automate result interpretation, followed by system evaluation and refinement.

Research skills

The student will gain experience in cybersecurity assessment, AI and machine learning applications, systems programming, experimental design, and academic research methods, including conducting literature reviews.

Outcomes

The project aims to develop and evaluate a prototype system for automating Essential Eight maturity assessments. Outcomes are expected to include a research publication and a proof-of-concept solution with potential real-world applications.

Start date

2 November, 2026

End date

19 February, 2027

Location

Y Block, QUT Gardens Point Campus

Additional information

The project is conducted in collaboration with an industry partner and focuses on solving real-world cybersecurity challenges currently faced by organisations. Students will have the opportunity to work on practical problems with direct industry relevance and impact.

Keywords

Contact

Atticus D'Mello

07 3138 9474

a.dmello@qut.edu.au