Asha Rao

Professor Asha Rao is a distinguished academic at RMIT University, holding the title of Professor in Mathematics and Cybersecurity. She has been instrumental in advancing cyber-mathematics to enhance cybersecurity. Her roles include Associate Dean of Mathematical Sciences (2017–2023) and Interim Director of the Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute (AMSI) (2020). She champions gender equity in STEM and frequently engages in public science communication.

• University: RMIT University
• School: School of Science
• Academic Rank: Professor

Research Focus: Her work spans cybersecurity, coding theory, complex networks, and risk management, often integrating mathematical frameworks to address real-world problems like money laundering and small business digital security. She also explores fractal analysis and post-quantum cryptography.

Recent Publications: Highlight recent advancements in post-quantum homomorphic encryption, small business cybersecurity frameworks (2021–2025), and data fusion techniques for internal network anomaly detection. Her research bridges technical innovation with policy implications.

Scientific Recognition:

• 2019–2020 Science & Technology Australia Superstar of STEM
• 2021 Victorian Honour Roll of Women (Trail Blazer)
• 2021 India Australia Science and Technology Development Award
• 2016 RMIT Media Stars Award

Teaching & Leadership: Actively supervises Masters and PhD students, emphasizing teamwork in cybersecurity education. She led curriculum design initiatives and addressed non-technical skills gaps in the industry (2020). Her leadership extends to national organizations like AMSI.

Community Engagement: Promotes cybersecurity through media appearances (ABC News, Australian Financial Review) and events like Pint of Science. She co-founded Women in Mathematics and advocates for girls in STEM.