The University of Johannesburg's Prof SH (Basie) von Solms ranks 5th globally among cybersecurity researchers

In an era of universal digital threats, the significance of cybersecurity research is paramount. Cyberattacks are becoming increasingly frequent and sophisticated, posing serious risks to individuals, businesses, and governments. Highlighting the importance of ongoing research and expertise in this field, Professor Basie von Solms from the University of Johannesburg (UJ) has recently been recognised as one of the top cybersecurity researchers globally.

Prof von Solms, who has dedicated 50 years to the study and teaching of Information and Cyber Security, has been ranked number 5 worldwide for his lifetime contributions to the field. This ranking by ScholarGPS reflects the significant impact and breadth of his research over the decades.

“Today, cybersecurity is more critical than ever," says Prof von Solms. "With technology advancing rapidly, the threats we encounter are continually evolving. Staying ahead requires ongoing research, innovation, and raising public awareness about the latest trends in cybercrime and how individuals can protect themselves against it."

Starting his career in the early 1980s, Prof von Solms has witnessed and contributed to the transformation of Information Security into what is now widely known as Cybersecurity. Alongside his research advancements, he has served as a mentor to over 30 doctoral students and numerous master's students, many of whom have focused their studies on Information and Cybersecurity.

Prof von Solms' impact reaches well beyond the confines of UJ. He has chaired esteemed international bodies such as the Technical Committee 11 (Information Security) of the International Federation for Information Processing (IFIP), subsequently assuming the role of its President. Furthermore, he has played an active role within the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global Futures Council for Cybersecurity, where he continues to contribute as an expert in the field.

In addition to these roles, Prof von Solms serves as an Associate Director at the University of Oxford’s Global Cybersecurity Capacity Centre and is a Board member of the Centre for Cybersecurity Capacity Centre of Southern Africa. His involvement with these institutions demonstrates his commitment to enhancing global cybersecurity capabilities.

Prof von Solms concludes: “The recognition by ScholarGPS is also a recognition of the collective efforts of my colleagues and students for continued dedication to cybersecurity research and education. Cybersecurity is not a solitary pursuit but a collaborative effort that requires constant vigilance and innovation.”

For more information about Prof von Solms’ work and his contributions to the field, please visit ScholarGPS.