Christopher Taylor

Researcher

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Christopher’s role as a Researcher focuses on researching and implementing advanced cybersecurity measures for IoT smart devices. This involves analysing vulnerabilities, improving existing security protocols and developing innovative strategies to protect against cyber threats. Christopher collaborates with cross functional teams and stay updated on cybersecurity trends to ensure the resilience and integrity of the IoT ecosystems.

What advice would you give to your 20-year-old self?

If I could offer advice to my 20-year-old self, I would emphasise the importance of embracing lifelong learning and adaptability. The world is constantly evolving, especially in the realm of technology and information. I would encourage myself to cultivate a growth mindset, be open to new experiences, and stay curious. Seek out diverse knowledge and skills, as they will be valuable assets in navigating the ever-changing landscape of the future. Additionally, I’d advise prioritising mental and physical wellbeing, as they are the foundation for sustained personal and professional growth.

What would people be surprised to know about you?

One intriguing aspect of my background is being an identical twin. While it’s often fascinating to others, what might surprise them even more is my early foray into hacking at the age of 13. Despite the absence of search engines like today, I managed to hack into my school’s IT system. What makes this surprising is that my method involved social engineering rather than the typical technical wizardry often associated with hacking. This showcases a unique blend of curiosity, resourcefulness, and tech-savviness that has been a consistent part of my character.

The fact that I was kicked off the GCSE IT program due to my hacking incident adds another layer of intrigue. It demonstrates that my passion for technology and exploration of its boundaries has been a lifelong pursuit, even when it occasionally led to unconventional outcomes. This experience likely contributed to my eventual interest in cybersecurity and research, where understanding the intricacies of digital systems and their vulnerabilities is paramount.

Name a project you wish you had worked on and explain why.

I wish I had the chance to work on IBM’s Deep Blue project, the computer that beat the World Chess Champion Garry Kasparov in 1997. Deep Blue’s win showcased AI’s ability to excel in complex strategic tasks and sparked widespread interest in AI research. It had a lasting impact beyond chess, influencing AI development in practical applications like problem solving and medical diagnosis. Being part of this historic project would have been an honour, contributing to AI’s growth and witnessing a significant moment in AI and strategic gaming history. (Unfortunately, I was only 10 years old!)