暗号・情報セキュリティ研究室 西出研究室

LAB INTRO.

Laboratory of Cryptography and Information Security

Unauthorized access to computers and information leaks can cause devastating damage. That is why building a safe and trustworthy digital society is more important than ever. In today's world, where information technology is everywhere, cryptography and security may sometimes feel like the unsung heroes working quietly behind the scenes, but their importance will never fade.

New businesses and services powered by networks are possible only because of fundamental technologies such as cryptography and authentication. In our lab, we place cryptography at the core of our research and work toward contributing to a society where people can feel secure.

When people hear the word cryptography, they often imagine only protecting data by keeping it secret. In reality, cryptography is rapidly evolving far beyond that, making it possible to use data securely while still keeping it private. Examples include performing computations and searches directly on encrypted data, or obfuscating programs that contain sensitive information. To achieve this, we draw on diverse mathematical tools such as computational complexity theory, algebra, probability, algorithms and data structures, and information theory. With these tools we create technologies that may seem impossible at first sight: useful, mysterious, and almost magical. These innovations push forward the boundaries of how information can be handled safely.

We believe this field is fascinating not only for its practical importance as the foundation of security but also for its theoretical elegance. Research here is like solving a puzzle full of mystery and beauty. We would be delighted to share with you the excitement of discovering new ideas and the joy of tackling such intellectual challenges together.

Lab Policy

  • Build a strong foundation of understanding through careful training in logical reasoning, layer by layer, and learn how to apply that knowledge to solving real-world problems.
  • Learn not only research topics but also how to learn itself. Through research activities, students gain the ability to communicate complex technical ideas clearly to others, and gradually grow into independent researchers and engineers.
  • Challenge yourself with patience and persistence. Things that are truly meaningful are rarely easy and often take time. Sticking with difficult problems is part of the journey.
  • Embrace the unexpected spark of insight. In research, it is normal to experience repeated setbacks, but sometimes inspiration suddenly strikes in the shower, while riding a bike, or even at two in the morning over a cup of coffee. Such moments can completely change the direction of your work.
  • Take part in both domestic and international conferences to present your achievements and connect with the wider research community.
  • Enjoy a supportive research environment where you can focus on your work and grow to your full potential.

Lab Environment

Each member has their own research space and access to reference materials in a well prepared environment. Graduate students in our lab are also provided with a laptop for research activities, or an iPad if preferred.

When travel is required for presenting papers or attending study groups related to research, we provide support for expenses such as travel costs to international and domestic conferences.

Seminars and Research Style

About once every two (or three) weeks: seminar sessions, progress discussions, and paper presentations
At the time of joining the lab: reading group to study together

Contact:Takashi Nishide

Eメール:nishide(at)risk.tsukuba.ac.jp