INVITED SPEAKER SEMINAR - Becoming Quantum Safe

Date: Monday, November 10, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. 

Location: EV 3.309

Abstract

With its unprecedented processing power, quantum computing promises to revolutionize numerous fields, including medicine, artificial intelligence, and space exploration. Yet this same power can also be used by malicious actors to undermine the cryptographic foundations that secure our digital world. Even before quantum computers can break current encryption, adversaries can harvest sensitive data now and decrypt it later, putting data with long confidentiality lifespans at immediate risk. This session explores the path toward quantum safe security through practical and standards-based approaches. It introduces the post quantum cryptography (PQC) standard and presents a real-world case study demonstrating its successful implementation to protect sensitive data. The session also highlights solutions that help organizations manage their transition to quantum safety, including the discovery and inventory of cryptographic assets, comprehensive risk assessment, and the execution of effective remediation strategies.

Biography

Dr. Walid Rjaibi, Distinguished Engineer and Global Architect for Quantum Safe at IBM, has shaped data security across multiple dimensions for over two decades. He has held pivotal roles at IBM including Chief Architect for Quantum Safe, CTO for Data Security, Chief Security Architect for DB2, and Research Staff Member for Cryptography. With a PhD in Computer Science and 30 patents, he has pioneered foundational technologies such as Transparent Database Encryption and Fine-Grained Access Control. A recognized researcher and thought leader, he bridges cutting-edge science with real-world cybersecurity. Walid is also an Adjunct Professor at Toronto Metropolitan University and advises leading cybersecurity and engineering programs across North America.