iSec will draw on experts from throughout the University, including computer science, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering, and will work in partnership with industry and government agencies. Its researchers will pursue new efforts in a wide array of unique problems, such as reconstructing traffic accidents through automobile computers and redacting digital information from electronic devices.

“The University of Tulsa is already one of the country's most recognized institutions for information security research and problem solving," said Tulsa Mayor Kathy Taylor. "And I am confident that this announcement will only further assist in attracting the top students and projects to the University. This is a great step for not only TU, but also the city of Tulsa.”

Since 1996, TU’s faculty and staff have produced some of the country’s leading professionals in information security, digital forensics, Internet security and telecommunications security under the TU Center for Information Security. However, the majority of the University’s projects have involved sensitive government work, resulting in few opportunities to promote its programs for obvious security reasons.

“TU has been on the cutting edge of information security for more than a decade,” said TU President Steadman Upham. “Its lead position in this emerging field is demonstrated in every aspect of the institute, including a nationally recognized cyber security faculty training center and iSec’s partnership with local, state and federal law enforcement through Tulsa Digital Forensics Center.”

According to TU officials, iSec will now advance the information security field through research discoveries and the development of solutions that address emerging issues within both government and private industry. The institute will open its doors to corporate partnerships, allowing students to gain real world experience in the private sector and the opportunity to commercialize their solutions.

“iSec is a key element of the college’s strategic plan and one of TU’s most notable areas of study,” said Steve Bellovich, Dean of the College of Engineering and Natural Sciences. “The development of public-private partnerships will be central to iSec’s operations and provide additional opportunities for our students and faculty to engage in leading edge discoveries. I look forward to further leveraging iSec’s position into a national leader in information security.”

TU officials also note iSec will produce exceptional graduates who will make significant contributions as professionals and leaders in the field, enhancing the state’s economy in the process.

“The formation of iSec is a great opportunity for the institute to become a dominant player in the information security field,” said Tom Walker, executive vice president and chief operating officer of i2E, a full-service technology commercialization center. “This type of initiative is critical to the economic development of the high-tech sector in Oklahoma and the region. I think the global impact of iSec could be huge.”

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