UWE Bristol professor joins government’s cyber expert panel, as new plan revealed to supercharge sector

Phil Legg, Professor of Cyber Security at UWE Bristol, has been appointed by the Cabinet Office to join the Government Cyber Advisory Board (GCAB).

The announcement comes as new plans are unveiled by the government to boost the UK’s growing cyber security sector with millions in new investment, as part of its Plan for Change.

GCAB is comprised of independent external experts to build better links between the government, the private sector and academia to ensure that core government functions are resilient to cyber-attack.

The GCAB brings these independent perspectives and input from across industry and academia into providing solutions to the challenges of government cyber security, through rigorous challenge and driving best practices, and to support the mission of the Government Cyber Security Strategy.

The GCAB also works closely with the National Cyber Advisory Board, a forum for a more inclusive and engaged national dialogue on cyber.

On his appointment, Professor Legg said: “It is a pleasure to be appointed by His Majesty’s Government to serve on the Government Cyber Advisory Board. The government wants to learn from select expert advisors across industry and academia on how best to ensure that the UK is resilient against cyber-attacks, and that our technology systems are effective for conducting our professional and personal lives online.

“As technology continues to evolve, including advances in AI and quantum, it remains crucial that we consider how these systems can be used for both harm as well as for good, so that we are proactive in our responses to protect our technological society.

“I am passionate about how our teaching and research at UWE Bristol can have real world impact and can better help protect our nation, and so having the opportunity to bring my expertise to this select group is a great privilege towards ensuring that the UK remains secure and resilient in cyber space.”

Phil will serve on the board for 12 months in the first instance.