Cliff Zou

Cliff Zou is a Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Central Florida (UCF), where he coordinates master’s programs in cybersecurity, privacy, and digital forensics. He directs the UCF Alliance for Cybersecurity and contributes to the university’s Cyber Security and Privacy Cluster.

• Education: Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from University of Massachusetts-Amherst

His research focuses on computer and network security, network modeling, and performance evaluation. Key areas include malware analysis, botnet defense, and adaptive cybersecurity protocols. His publications address threats like email worms, peer-to-peer botnets, and internet worms, reflecting his work in proactive threat mitigation and network resilience.

Scientific recognition includes:

• Senior Member of IEEE
• Best Student Paper Award (ACSAC 2007)
• UCF Teaching Incentive Program (TIP) award (2013)
• Best Paper runner-up (PADS 2005, ICCCN 2004)
• First-place award for undergraduate project 'Personal Medication Monitor'

His research has been featured in New Scientist Magazine, EurekAlert!, PCWorld, and The Register. Zou actively contributes to academic conferences as an organizer and program committee member.