Zachary Peterson

Zachary Peterson is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science at California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly), San Luis Obispo, within the College of Engineering. His work bridges secure storage systems, applied cryptography, law, policy, and cybersecurity education.

His research interests focus on interdisciplinary problems, especially in secure storage systems, privacy, and regulatory-compliant storage. He is deeply engaged in innovative computer security education, particularly through games, Alternate Reality Games (ARGs), and board games like [d0x3d!], aiming to make security accessible and engaging for students of all ages, from K–12 to undergraduates.

The recent articles reflect a strong trajectory in usable and inclusive security, pedagogical innovation, and foundational cryptographic systems. Themes include provable data possession, deniable encryption, cloud data geolocation, and accessibility for visually impaired users. His work increasingly emphasizes human-centered and educational aspects of security.

• NSF SaTC Award for K-12 Cybersecurity Education
• Google CS Engagement Award
• Fulbright Scholar (US-UK Cybersecurity Fulbright Scholar)
• Cal Poly wins NSA GenCyber Teacher Training Award

Dr. Peterson actively advises and mentors students through programs like EPIC summer camps and cybersecurity competitions. He has led grant-funded initiatives such as the NSF SaTC project and the TableTop Security project, which explores game-based learning. His collaborations span institutions like Royal Holloway University and involve public engagement through talks at USENIX Enigma, UCL, and media features including the Washington Post.

He leads the TableTop Security project, an umbrella initiative for developing and evaluating security education games. He is also involved in the 3GSE (Games for Security Education) community and has co-organized workshops like USENIX ASE. His lab work focuses on making security tangible and accessible through gameplay and interactive narratives.