April 17th @5:30pm – Brian Hornak on Reverse Engineering/Vulnerability Research

Register: This is a Hybrid meeting. A dinner meal will be served (Meal menu Nando PERi-PERi). REGISTER HERE for IN PERSON & ONLINE Zoom. Location: Battelle Crystal City Office, 6th floor: 1550 Crystal Dr, Arlington, VA 22202. Metro Station Accessible. Registration closes on Wednesday 04/16/2025.

Abstract: A career in Reverse Engineering and Vulnerability Research (RE/VR) provides a unique opportunity to apply cutting edge research techniques to solve ever-evolving challenges across a variety of industries and technologies. RE/VR involves analyzing and deconstructing systems to understand how they work and what makes them tick. As cyber threats grow and technology advances, RE/VR will play a crucial role in securing our digital systems and solving the world’s hardest security problems! This session will highlight the skills required for a successful career in RE/VR, including programming, critical thinking, and a deep curiosity for how things work. Attendees will gain insights into the day-to-day life of a security researcher as well as some of the tools of the trade. Expect to learn more about the diverse array of opportunities available in the RE/VR space and how you can make an impact in promoting a more secure future. Whether you’re a beginner curious about entering the field or a professional looking to expand your knowledge, this talk will provide valuable information on how to get started, the challenges you’ll face, and the tremendous impact you can make in an increasingly technology-driven world.

About the Speaker: Brian Hornak is a Cybersecurity Researcher at Battelle Memorial Institute with over 7 years of experience. Throughout his career, he has supported of a variety of government organizations and customers. The bulk of his work has been with embedded systems and in the field of microelectronic assurance. A self-proclaimed “hardware hacker”, Brian finds himself at home surrounded by circuit boards and wires, breaking (and eventually fixing) a variety of devices. He now acts as a Principal Investigator leading an operationally driven engineering team to provide mission critical cyber capabilities and tools for Battelle customers. He holds a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Maryland and is finishing a M.S. in Electrical Engineering from the George Washington University.