Luca Piras

Dr. Luca Piras is a Senior Lecturer in Computer Science at Middlesex University, affiliated with the Faculty of Science and Technology. His primary research focuses on Privacy-by-Design, GDPR compliance, and gamification-based software acceptance solutions. He specializes in developing semi-automated tools like Agon (an acceptance requirements framework) to enhance software engagement and security. Piras also explores AI-driven approaches for detecting Android vulnerabilities and blockchain-based privacy solutions. His work bridges software engineering, requirements modeling, and behavioral science to improve system usability and security.

Education & Qualifications:

• PhD in Information and Communication Technology (University of Trento, Italy)
• Research collaborations with institutions like DISI (University of Trento) and EU projects (e.g., PACAS, DEFeND)

Research Interests:

• Privacy-preserving technologies
• GDPR-compliant systems
• Gamification in e-learning and smart communities
• AI-driven vulnerability detection
• Blockchain applications in security
• Federated learning for GIS systems

Key Publications: Over 30 peer-reviewed papers across conferences like ENASE, IEEE RE, and workshops on system security assurance. Notable works include frameworks like Agon and tools such as ConfIs for privacy analysis.

Teaching: Current courses include 'Web-Based Mobile App Development' and 'Full Stack Development.'

Labs & Projects: Developed the Agon-Tool prototype for gamification requirements analysis and contributed to the DEFeND platform for GDPR compliance.