The digital age has revolutionized the way we navigate our worlds, rely on interconnected technologies for communication and transport, and engage with emerging infrastructures. As these systems evolve, they become increasingly complex—raising significant concerns about their security and reliability. In this rapidly changing landscape, the work of researchers like Dr. Li Yang emerges as both timely and critical.
Dr. Yang is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Business and Information Technology at Ontario Tech University, where he dives deep into the realms of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. His research is anchored in enhancing cybersecurity across various digital environments, which now encompass smart infrastructure, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and sophisticated wireless networks. With our increasing reliance on these interconnected systems, the creation of robust solutions to counter cyber threats is more vital than ever.
“As more technologies that support services such as transportation and energy increasingly rely on interconnected systems, these environments create new opportunities for attackers,” Dr. Yang points out. He underscores the urgent need for solutions that can detect and mitigate threats effectively, especially in real-world conditions where risks are continuously evolving.
AI Approaches for Real-World Environments
Delving into his research, Dr. Yang explores AI systems designed to identify unusual activity and adapt to varying conditions. The cornerstone of his study lies in automated machine-learning techniques that enable models to evolve and improve their ability to detect new and emerging cyber threats as network environments shift. This adaptability is crucial, especially as the frequency and sophistication of attacks increase.
Moreover, Dr. Yang is investigating methods to enhance the efficiency of AI models, allowing them to function seamlessly on devices with limited processing capabilities. This is particularly significant for environments where computing power may be a constraint, ensuring that security measures can be implemented without burdening the existing infrastructure.
Protecting Emerging Infrastructure
One of the most pressing applications of Dr. Yang’s research is in the realm of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. These networks play a pivotal role in the automotive landscape, connecting drivers, service providers, payment platforms, and energy systems. However, this interconnectedness also creates multiple vulnerability points for potential cyber attackers. Threats can emerge both through network breaches—where charging stations communicate sensitive data with servers—and through physical security risks, like the insertion of compromised USB devices into charging units.
To mitigate these risks, Dr. Yang’s work is supported by the National Cybersecurity Consortium. Together, they are developing ‘TinyML’—lightweight AI models designed to run on small devices such as Raspberry Pi—to monitor EV charging stations in real time. This innovative approach allows for continuous surveillance of charging units, aiming to detect new or unfamiliar threats as they emerge. The next pivotal phase involves deploying these models on actual charging infrastructure to assess their real-world efficacy in threat detection.
Training Future AI Experts
A further impact of Dr. Yang’s work lies in his commitment to education and mentorship. He supervises a team of over 10 student researchers, providing them with invaluable hands-on experience in AI, cybersecurity, and responsible computing practices. As these students navigate the complexities of designing technologies that prioritize safety, reliability, and ethical considerations, they are being equipped with the necessary skills to become future leaders in the field.
Dr. Yang’s contributions to the domain have not gone unnoticed; in 2025, he was recognized as one of the Top 30 Early Career Professionals by the IEEE Computer Society. This accolade underscores not just his achievements, but also the profound significance of his research in shaping a safer, more secure digital landscape.
