Dr Ismini Vasileiou has received an Impact Award from the Research Institute in Sociotechnical Cyber Security (RISCS).

The accolade recognises the national significance of her work in cyber policy, skills development and regional innovation.

The award follows Dr Vasileiou’s recent Honorary Fellowship from RISCS and highlights the measurable impact of several major initiatives delivered over the past year. 

These include the IUK/DSIT-funded CyberLocal projects, CyberSprint and CyberGrowth, as well as authoring the Cyber Workforce of the Future white paper and her ongoing advisory work with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT).

RISCS, which is funded by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), supports research that addresses the human, organisational and societal dimensions of cyber security. 

Its recognition of EMCSC founder Dr Vasileiou’s work provides independent validation of its national relevance and practical application.

The award also reinforces the growing importance of the university-cluster model championed through EMCSC. By connecting academic research with industry and government priorities, this approach is helping to translate national cyber strategy into tangible regional outcomes – particularly in strengthening cyber resilience and addressing skills gaps.

The recognition comes at a time of increasing focus on the UK’s cyber capabilities and workforce pipeline, positioning both EMCSC and De Montfort University as key contributors to delivering place-based innovation and policy impact at scale.

Dr Vasileiou said: “This recognition from RISCS is a strong endorsement of the impact that collaborative, place-based cyber initiatives can deliver. 

“Through our work with DSIT and regional partners, we are helping to bridge the gap between policy and practice, ensuring that cyber skills, innovation and resilience are embedded where they are needed most.”