Research
- CIPHER Platform
- Current Projects
- Research Library
Current Projects
The Center for Healthcare Cybersecurity (CHC) develops research, tools, and operational strategies to help healthcare organizations prepare for, withstand, and recover from cyberattacks. Our work is focused on protecting hospital operations and supporting safe, continuous patient care during digital disruption.
Research Areas
Healthcare Ransomware Resiliency and Response Program (HR3P)
HR3P focuses on reducing the impact of ransomware attacks on hospitals and healthcare systems. The program supports the development of practical interventions that help healthcare organizations respond more effectively and maintain continuity during cyber incidents.
- Developing response frameworks and decision-support tools for hospital leaders and emergency teams during ransomware events.
- Creating capabilities to help restore IT systems and network functionality with minimal downtime.
- Building monitoring approaches to improve detection and response across healthcare environments.
Evidence-Based Cybersecurity
CHC applies rigorous research methods to cybersecurity challenges in healthcare. This work is designed to ensure that interventions are practical, measurable, and effective in clinical environments.
- Studying how cyberattacks affect hospital operations, clinical workflows, and patient care.
- Developing training and simulation programs that help clinicians and operational teams prepare for cyber incidents.
- Investigating medical device and hospital network vulnerabilities to strengthen resilience against emerging threats.
Cyber Disaster Preparedness
Cyberattacks can create operational crises that extend well beyond IT systems. CHC’s work in cyber disaster preparedness helps healthcare institutions plan for large-scale disruption and sustain critical services during emergencies.
- Examining the real-world effects of cyber incidents on emergency departments, trauma systems, and hospital operations.
- Designing contingency protocols, alternative communication approaches, and recovery workflows for disrupted care environments.
- Working with healthcare providers, government partners, and security experts to support scalable response strategies.
Building a More Resilient Healthcare System
Through these efforts, CHC is helping healthcare organizations strengthen preparedness, improve response, and protect continuity of care in the face of cyber threats.