Cybersecurity, Computer Science Students, Experts Invited to DOE's Puzzle Challenge

Aiken, SC (02/26/2020) — The Department of Energy invites college students, particularly those studying computer science, mathematics, or cybersecurity, to partner with their security experts for an engaging workshop, known as Cyber Fire Puzzles, which will take place in the University of South Carolina Aiken Student Activities Center on March 5 - 6.

"This event is a great way to introduce cybersecurity to the community and to future cyber specialists through a fun and competitive format," said Dr. Chad Leverette, interim dean of the College of Sciences and Engineering.

"Cyber Fire Puzzles just adds to the great momentum USC Aiken currently has in computer science and cybersecurity. We are thrilled to host this event at our university this year."

The event is free. Teams and individuals can register to participate at: https://register.cyberfire.training/event/usca by March 5 at 9 a.m.

DOE's Savannah River National Laboratory is partnering with USC Aiken to bring the dynamic learning competition to the CSRA.

"The event allows our students a chance to build relationships with experts at DOE and SRNL while also learning about the skills and strategies needed in cybersecurity," Leverette said.

"It also gives our students a chance to work alongside practitioners of cybersecurity in the CSRA, including active military personnel, SRNL staff scientists, and some private companies."

Participants work through puzzles in a number of categories selected by staff to target the attendees and duration of the event, according to the Cyber Fire website. DOE representatives help participants one-on-one with whatever each participant encounters as a sticking point in their progress through the curriculum.

"In-depth investigation requires approaching each incident creatively. Instead of providing a book with a few sample recipes, we help participants tailor unique solutions for each different problem," say organizers from the Department of Energy.

Puzzle categories cover computer forensics, cryptography, mathematics, general computer science, mathematics, and more.

While the event is free, participants will need a laptop, Internet connection, and modern web browser (no older than Chrome 74, Firefox 66, Safari 12, or Edge 18). Participants will not be able to use Internet Explorer.

Who: Cyber Security Students and Practitioners

When: March 5, 2020 9 a.m. US/Eastern through 3 p.m. US/Eastern March 6, 2020

Where: University of South Carolina Aiken (USC Aiken) Student Activity Center

Cost: Free to participate

Skill level: This event is designed for entry level through advanced cybersecurity professionals. The puzzles progressively escalate in difficulty.

Participation: Teams will consist of 1 - 10 people. Participants are welcome to form their own teams.

Requirements: Participants will need a laptop, internet connection, and modern web browser (no older than Chrome 74, Firefox 66, Safari 12, or Edge 18). Participants will not be able to use Internet Explorer.

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