Dr Aminu Bello Usman

Teaching

My research in privacy, security, and emerging technologies deeply influences my teaching as an associate professor of computer science. I deliver courses that equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to address today’s pressing cybersecurity challenges.

My Internet of Things (IoT) course centres on the unique security and privacy challenges associated with IoT networks. I lead students through the analysis of device vulnerabilities, secure communication protocols, and trust-based models that can enhance IoT ecosystems, a reflection of my ongoing research in this field.

In Cloud Computing Security and Compliance, I guide students through the complexities of securing cloud-based systems. We explore strategies for mitigating risks in cloud infrastructures while ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements, such as GDPR and PCI DSS, preparing students to handle security in highly dynamic environments.

In Digital Forensics, I provide students with hands-on experience in investigating cyber incidents. This course focusses on digital evidence collection, forensic analysis techniques, and ethical considerations, preparing students to handle real-world investigations in a legal and compliant manner

Research

My research focusses on addressing the pressing privacy and security challenges in modern digital systems, with a particular emphasis on biometric authentication and trust-based mechanisms. In the context of smart healthcare systems, I explore how privacy can be preserved in the transmission and storage of sensitive medical information between IoT devices. I am particularly interested in developing robust frameworks that ensure biometric authentication is both secure and user-friendly, without compromising the privacy of patients.

A key aspect of my work involves creating a Privacy by Design framework for biometric IoT systems, where privacy is integrated into the architecture of IoT-based healthcare solutions from the ground up. This research contributes to the development of secure medical systems that can withstand evolving cyber threats, ensuring that patient data remains confidential and protected.

In addition, I am working on enhancing trust-based mechanisms in human-robot interactions, particularly in AI-driven healthcare environments. This involves improving explainability and transparency in AI decision-making, which is critical for building trust between humans and machines. I am also investigating how trust in AI and robots varies across different cultures and societies, which is crucial for designing globally applicable systems that account for cultural nuances in perceptions of AI and robotic trustworthiness.

Professional activities

As the leader of the Cybersecurity Research Group at York St John University, I spearhead research efforts focused on privacy, biometric security, IoT, and trust-based systems, guiding both academic research and real-world applications in cybersecurity.

In addition to my research leadership, I serve as the Editor of the Journal of Disability Research and the Lead Editor of the Journal of Networking and Telecommunications, where I manage the publication of innovative research in these fields. I also contribute as an Associate Editor for the International Journal of Computers and Applications, ensuring high-quality contributions to the broader computer science community.

I am an active keynote speaker, sharing my expertise on cybersecurity, privacy, and trust-based technologies at conferences and industry events. Furthermore, I serve as an external examiner and an external member of academic review panels, where I provide critical evaluations to maintain academic standards and foster excellence in teaching and research.