• Aston University has been named as Cyber University of 2025
• The National Cyber Awards marks excellence and innovation
• The University’s Cyber Security Innovation Research Centre was recognised for its outstanding contribution.

Aston University has been named as Cyber University of 2025 in a national awards competition that is judged by experts from industry, government and the public sector.

The National Cyber Awards, which is sponsored this year by BAE Systems, were launched in 2019 to mark excellence and innovation in the field of cybersecurity.

The University’s Cyber Security Innovation Research Centre, or CSI, which is dedicated to making the UK the safest place for digital business, was recognised for its outstanding contribution to education, research and innovation.

Recent projects include contributions to two multi-million pound Horizon Europe initiatives, TRACE, which uses AI to tackle international money, and FORCE or Fostering Optimal Regulatory Compliance for Cryptocurrencies: An Interdisciplinary Approach, which builds on TRACE initiative. Nationally the centre has contributed to UK Cyber Ecosystem Mapping Project which informs on strategy and curriculum development. The University has also conducted research on AI-powered disinformation responses and blockchain forensics which has reinforced its reputation as a global leader in cybersecurity studies.

To increase participation in the sector Aston established Cyber Kali which introduces schoolgirls from disadvantaged backgrounds to cybersecurity through hands-on competitions. The University is also an official CyberFirst partner which demonstrates its dedication to widening participation in cybersecurity careers.

The University was shortlisted against four other UK universities and the team were presented with their award at a black-tie dinner in London on 29 September.

CSI director Professor Vladlena Benson said: “At the heart of Aston’s success is the Cyber Security Innovation Research Centre which fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and has significantly expanded the University’s research capabilities while forging strong partnerships with industry and government.

“The award highlights our unique approach to preparing students for careers in cybersecurity through a powerful combination of rigorous academic programmes, real-world experience, and strong industry and government collaboration. All programmes are aligned with the Cyber Security Body of Knowledge or CyBOK, ensuring that Aston graduates are equipped with the skills required by today’s evolving digital landscape.”

Award categories included cyber industry, education & skills, cyber leaders and public sector.
CEO of The National Cyber Awards, Fergus Bruce, praised the winners of this year's event and said: “These awards were the biggest we have seen to date with a range of fantastic nominees, highlighting the innovation and overall calibre of those working in the cybersecurity industry today. These winners represent the foundational future of cybersecurity: the educators, trainers and institutions forging tomorrow’s talent. By equipping people with critical skills and inspiring fresh minds, they build resilience from the ground up. Congratulations to those advancing the cause of learning and growth and being committed to such an exciting and testing industry.”