CYDAR - Cybersecurity Defence and Attack Resilience Laboratory
CYDAR brings together researchers, academics, and students at the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca with a shared interest in cybersecurity. The laboratory aims to advance the understanding of cyber threats and develop effective approaches to protecting digital systems and strengthening their resilience to attacks. Through collaborative research, experimentation, and education, CYDAR connects offensive and defensive perspectives to address cybersecurity challenges.
Adrian Coleșa
Research Conducted in this Laboratory
Cybersecurity Seminars @ UTCN
The project aims to enhance the technical proficiency of students in the field of cybersecurity while also promoting cybersecurity awareness within the local community. This initiative is led by the Departments of Automation, Computer Science, and Communication, and offers courses in areas such as cryptography, mobile security, ethical hacking, operating system and network security, IoT security, good practices against social engineering attacks, and cyber risk management, to name just a few. Our hands-on approach involves direct engagement with local community organizations (LCOs), including SMEs, public institutions, educational and healthcare institutions, HoReCa organizations, professional offices, and non-profit organizations. Through these collaborations, we raise awareness about cybersecurity risks and exposures while equipping participants with practical cybersecurity strategies and best practices. Project’s seminars are designed to create a lasting educational impact by bridging academic expertise with real-world cybersecurity challenges.
RExQTCS - Romanian Excellence Quantum Technologies enhancing Cybersecurity
The RExQTCS (Romanian Excellence in Quantum Technologies enhancing Cybersecurity) project aims to establish a national center of excellence that integrates leading expertise in quantum technologies and cybersecurity across major Romanian universities. By leveraging strong international research performance and existing infrastructure — most notably the Romanian National Quantum Communication Infrastructure (RoNaQCI), part of the European Quantum Communication Infrastructure (EuroQCI) — the project seeks to position Romania at the forefront of quantum-secure digital innovation. RExQTCS proposes a comprehensive research and innovation agenda structured around frontier and exploratory research in classical and post-quantum cryptography, quantum technologies, security of enterprise and critical infrastructures, and secure communication protocols for the future quantum internet. The project will address key challenges such as vulnerability to quantum attacks, scalability and security of QKD networks, and the integration of quantum technologies into real-world systems. Interdisciplinary approaches combining cryptography, quantum physics, artificial intelligence, distributed systems, and network security will enable the development of novel, high-impact solutions for critical infrastructures, public administration, and industry. Beyond research, the project emphasizes education, innovation, and societal impact. Through the RExQTCS School, it aims to train a new generation of specialists, producing at least 25 PhD graduates and fostering a sustainable talent pipeline. Strong industry collaboration and technology transfer will accelerate the adoption of quantum-secure solutions, while national awareness programs will promote cybersecurity culture among citizens, institutions, and policymakers. Ultimately, RExQTCS seeks to strengthen Romania's role in the European quantum ecosystem, contributing to secure digital transformation and advancing the development of the future quantum internet.
