Industrial Informatics

MATRIS Science Lab

Research for Secure and Resilient Systems

The MATRIS Science Lab (Mathematics for Testing, Resilience and Information Security) investigates the mathematical foundations of security and resilience in complex digital systems and critical infrastructures. Its research focuses on how systems can be protected against cyberattacks, natural hazards and the combined effects of these threats.

MATRIS is a joint research initiative of Salzburg University of Applied Sciences (FH Salzburg) and the University of Salzburg, led by Dimitris Simos. The Science Lab combines fundamental mathematical research with applied cybersecurity research, developing innovative methods to identify risks at an early stage, systematically investigate security vulnerabilities and strengthen the resilience of critical infrastructures.

Mathematical Research Meets Applied Cybersecurity

The increasing digitalisation and interconnection of energy systems, communication networks and other critical infrastructures create new opportunities but also introduce complex security risks. Particularly challenging are hybrid threats, in which cyberattacks and natural hazards occur simultaneously or amplify each other's effects.

MATRIS develops mathematical models, algorithms and testing methods to systematically analyse such threat scenarios. A particular focus is placed on combinatorial security testing, which enables the efficient investigation of complex interactions and potential vulnerabilities.

Two Universities – One Joint Research Lab

The MATRIS Science Lab brings together the scientific expertise of two higher education institutions in Salzburg. At the University of Salzburg, research focuses on mathematical modelling and the development of fundamental methods and tools for complex, secure and resilient systems.

At Salzburg University of Applied Sciences (FH Salzburg), within the Department of Information Technologies and Digitalisation, the emphasis is on applied research. This includes security and resilience testing for real-world infrastructures, smart grids and digital technologies.

Through close collaboration, the two institutions develop scientifically grounded and practice-oriented approaches that contribute to making digital systems and critical infrastructures more secure and resilient in the long term.

Research Areas

MATRIS focuses on the following key research areas:

  • Resilience of Critical Infrastructures: Analysing the resilience of energy, communication and logistics networks against cyberattacks and natural hazards.
  • Combinatorial Security Testing: Developing mathematical testing methods to systematically identify vulnerabilities in complex systems.
  • Hybrid Threats: Investigating the interaction between cyberattacks and natural hazards and their impact on interconnected infrastructures.
  • Security of Cyber-Physical Systems: Modelling and analysing potential attack paths and developing methods for assessing security risks.

Through these activities, MATRIS contributes to advancing cybersecurity research and strengthening the security and resilience of interconnected digital infrastructures.

Funding and Collaboration

The joint professorship in cybersecurity at Salzburg University of Applied Sciences and the University of Salzburg is funded by the State of Salzburg. It provides the foundation for cross-institutional collaboration within the MATRIS Science Lab and strengthens Salzburg as a research location in the field of cybersecurity.

  • Scientific Director: Dimitris Simos
  • Research Institutions: Salzburg University of Applied Sciences (FH Salzburg) and University of Salzburg
  • Further Information: https://matris.science/

Strategic Partners