Hi, I’m Athul Jayaram, founder of SecurityInfinity. I was named a finalist for the IET Mike Sargeant Award. Standing at IET London’s Savoy Place, invited by Chief Executive Ed Almond, FIET, was the highlight of my career.
I’m an Application Security Engineer and Cybersecurity Researcher too. My work dives into cybersecurity, uncovering vulnerabilities, securing digital systems, and staying ahead of threats across web, mobile, and cloud environments. I lead an initiative in the cybersecurity industry, crafting AI-driven solutions to protect critical infrastructure for enterprises worldwide.
Inspiration and Education
Growing up, I was glued to computers and chose computer engineering. But those engineering books became interesting, and coding lessons flipped a switch. Learning how fragile digital systems could be, I found my calling in cybersecurity, a field that’s like cracking puzzles with real-world stakes. Keeping data and networks safe, from personal devices to global grids, fueled my passion.
I earned a dual degree in Computer Science Engineering and an MBA from Amity University. Pursuing two demanding programs stretched me to my limits, but they taught me how to fuse technical skills with management. Engineering sharpened my technical skills, while the MBA gave me a lens to align tech with impact. Studies pushed me hard; complex algorithms and tight deadlines were a grind. I leaned into hands-on projects, like building vulnerability scanners, to make concepts stick. Those experiments kept me grounded.
Engineering stereotypes? I’ve heard it’s all math or lacks flair. I push back by showing cybersecurity’s creative spark outsmarting hackers and blending logic with ingenuity. It’s open to anyone who loves a challenge.
Challenges and Solutions
Founding SecurityInfinity was a defining project. Creating an AI platform to cut vulnerability detection time by 80% and secure over 100 enterprise endpoints was intense. Identifying over 1,000 vulnerabilities, including XSS, RCE, and Authentication Bypass, strengthened defenses for organizations and government bodies like the U.S. Department of Defense and UK National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).
I have discovered the CVE-2019-2706 in Oracle Business Suite, a flaw that risked global systems. Weeks of code analysis, exploit testing, and collaboration with Oracle led to a patch. Creativity was vital: thinking like a hacker to find it, then like an engineer to fix it. Balancing precision with bold ideas drives my work.
Cybersecurity protects society by ensuring digital trust, safeguarding economies and communities. I follow ethics by prioritizing clear, lasting solutions that put users first. It is a well-established fact that none of the companies I secured have suffered a cyberattack.
Professional Development
Cybersecurity evolves fast, so I stay sharp with platforms like HackerOne, IEEE journals, and EngX conversations. Certifications like CEH keep me grounded, and I’m exploring AI-security courses to push further. My career has shifted from Cyber Risk Consultant to Security Engineer of a Fortune 500 company, and now leading my venture. Each role taught me adaptability. Key skills? Sharp analysis, creative problem-solving, and clear communication are essential for connecting tech and people.
I’ve been honored with prestigious awards, including the Charles Babbage Medal, NCSC UK government, and recently selected as Senior Member of IEEE (SMIEEE), reflecting my leadership in the field.
Networking and Opportunities
My networking advice: Be real. Dive into IET events, ask thoughtful questions, and build bonds that last. It’s about growing together.
Learn through trial and error. Start small, like chasing bug bounties, and keep at it. Seeing them score their first win feels electric.
I’m open to cybersecurity and engineering opportunities in the UK, eager to innovate and collaborate. Connect with me on LinkedIn for professional discussions.
Final Thoughts
Engineering’s future is buzzing, and quantum computing will reshape cybersecurity. We’ll need smart, ethical answers to keep up. To my younger self, I’d say, “Chase your questions; they’ll take you far.” To aspiring engineers: Jump in with grit. Tough problems are your shot to stand out.
My work has earned a global audience, with Forbes highlighting my discoveries, like “A Twitter Flaw Like Edited Tweet Multiple Times” and “WhatsApp Users Warned of Leaked Details”. My scholarly impact includes internationally recognized research papers with over 300 citations advancing cybersecurity, data mining, and artificial intelligence. I’ve also served as a judge for the IEEE IoT Journal and IEEE Access, evaluating cutting-edge innovations, which reflects my authority in the field.
What’s next for cybersecurity? Drop your thoughts below. Let’s shape the future together.