From her humble beginnings in abstract algebra to her pivotal role in developing quantum-safe cryptographic solutions, Maria's journey is a testament to the power of curiosity and innovation in shaping tomorrow's cybersecurity landscape.
“I didn’t know much about post-quantum cryptography at first, but my supervisor strongly urged me to investigate it. She gave me a challenging problem that I had a lot of fun working on.”
Maria Perepechaenko
We stand on the brink of a quantum revolution, where quantum computers hold the promise of unparalleled opportunities alongside unpredictable challenges. Among these challenges lies the critical issue of quantum computing’s impact on cryptography, a concern that drives the research of Maria Perepechaenko.
Formerly a master’s student in the uOttawa Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Maria’s first job post-graduation was as a cryptography researcher at Quantropi, a cybersecurity start-up, where she delved into the cutting-edge area of quantum-safe algorithms. In this exciting role, she developed, implemented, and conducted security analyses for quantum-secure cryptographic algorithms.
She then moved on to the role of Technical Product Manager at Qrypt, a cybersecurity company that protects and defends our collective privacy from exploitation by reimagining how data is encrypted transmitted and stored. In her current role, Maria is involved in solving real-life security problems with quantum-safe cryptographic solutions.
When Maria began her master’s program, a career in quantum computing and cryptography was not on her radar. Initially specializing in abstract algebra, she discovered their significant overlap with post-quantum cryptography. It was her supervisor, Professor Monica Nevins, who encouraged her to explore this unfamiliar territory. Reflecting on this, Maria recalls, “I didn’t know much about post-quantum cryptography at first, but my supervisor strongly urged me to investigate it. She gave me a challenging problem that I had a lot of fun working on.”
Two years after graduating, Maria finds herself immersed in quantum-safe data encryption. Her work at Quantropi revolved around the mathematical foundations of quantum-safe cryptographic algorithms. With the looming threat of quantum computers potentially compromising current encryption methods, Maria and her team focussed on developing new mathematical algorithms to fortify our data security. This involves creating software defences that can withstand the capabilities of future quantum computers, thereby elevating the security of our communications to unprecedented levels.
At Qrypt, Maria is part of a team that develops solutions aimed at addressing security challenges posed by quantum computers, helping other companies to safeguard their systems against emerging security threats.
Reflecting on her time at the University of Ottawa, Maria credits her growth to the supportive environment fostered by the Quantum Security via Algebras and Representation Theory (QUASAR) research group. In addition to developing valuable connections with faculty members and fellow students, Maria had numerous opportunities to improve her public speaking and problem-solving skills, which now serve as pillars in her professional journey. Her mentor, Prof. Nevins, instilled in her the value of embracing the unknown and fostering a growth mindset, lessons that continue to guide Maria in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of STEM.
As Maria continues to push the boundaries of quantum-safe cryptography, she remains driven by curiosity and a steadfast commitment to learning. In a field advancing at a breathtaking pace, she believes that curiosity coupled with creative problem-solving skills from her mathematical studies is the compass that will lead to continued innovation and success.
Read more:
- Quantropi
- Qrypt