The Cyber Security Research and Networking Environment is a major project led by Oxford University that’s goal is to strengthen the UK’s digital defences. Supported by £6 million from EPSRC, CRANE will launch in 2025, working across sectors like healthcare, law enforcement, and manufacturing to protect them from cyber-attacks.
It brings together specialists from fields such as computer science, psychology, and law to build safer digital networks and secure essential services.
The UK has become one of the most targeted countries for cyber-attacks worldwide, following Ukraine and the United States. CRANE’s efforts will concentrate on creating secure digital environments, where communities, businesses, and critical infrastructure can operate safely, without the constant threat of online attacks.
How Will CRANE Detect Threats Early?
CRANE isn’t waiting for attacks to happen. Through the use of advanced technology like artificial intelligence and quantum computing, it will keep a close watch on digital trends and patterns, looking out for early signs of cyber risks. This is called “horizon-scanning,” and it let experts identify possible dangers before they escalate, which gives CRANE time to put stronger defences in place.
This kind of early warning system changes the game for cybersecurity, focusing on what could go wrong and preparing for it ahead of time. CRANE’s efforts to spot risks in advance mean the UK can protect sensitive data and avoid disruptions in key services, helping everyday life run smoothly and securely.
Who Is Leading The CRANE Project?
Professor Andrew Martin from Oxford University leads CRANE, with a team from Abertay University, University of Bath, University College London, and the University of Birmingham. With backing from the National Cyber Security Centre and EPSRC, CRANE combines expertise across many fields, ranging from technical disciplines to social sciences.
This range of knowledge gives CRANE the ability to tackle complex problems from multiple perspectives, building a well-rounded approach to cybersecurity. The experts involved bring valuable insights from their areas, creating a strong foundation for addressing the broad spectrum of digital risks in today’s world.
What New Research Will CRANE Support?
CRANE has dedicated £2 million to fund fresh research, encouraging innovative projects that could lead to practical solutions for cybersecurity. This funding will help early-stage projects develop, backing both smaller studies and more extensive initiatives, which in turn supports the UK’s goal of building a safer online environment.
Another part of CRANE’s mission involves setting up a “learned society” for cybersecurity researchers, a space for experts to share ideas, findings, and insights. Special interest groups and regional events will help bring people from across the UK together, so researchers don’t have to travel extensively to connect with others in their field. This creates a national network that makes cybersecurity knowledge accessible to those working in the field.
How Can People Get Involved With CRANE?
CRANE is designed to be open to anyone with an interest in cybersecurity, with more information on how to participate coming in 2025. The network welcomes experienced professionals as well as newcomers to the field, building a community that encourages contributions from people of all backgrounds.
With this inclusive structure, CRANE brings cybersecurity into a shared space, where knowledge isn’t limited to a select few but becomes something everyone can contribute to. In doing so, CRANE is building a community focused on keeping the UK’s digital spaces safe for everyone.
