Meet Alex, an MSc graduate in Computing and Information Systems with Distinction

Overview

MSc graduate in Computing and Information Systems with Distinction. Coming from a strong and diverse working background in kitchen management and customer service, I’ve developed excellent leadership skills in demanding team environments. I seek a challenging and rewarding position building technical infrastructure. Skilled at quickly building rapport, systems thinking and presenting ideas in a clear, accessible manner. I am excited to meet interesting people, deepen my knowledge of cyber best practices and make a tangible difference.

Previous Work Experience

For my final MSc project, I developed a low-cost distributed system to enable cashless donations for vulnerable individuals without bank accounts. The project integrated low-level NFC tag value block management with external cryptographic authentication to detect and exclude compromised MIFARE Classic tags, which are susceptible to state-restoration attacks. My supervisor and second examiner unanimously praised the initiative. Through this project, I gained firsthand insight into the widespread use of MIFARE Classic tags in real-world applications, exposing me to the vast security vulnerabilities within digital ecosystems. This experience sparked my strong interest in cybersecurity, particularly in the realm of state-sponsored threat actors. To stay informed, I actively follow industry developments through CSO and other cybersecurity resources. As a Production Supervisor at Lina Stores, I spearheaded a proactive restructuring of the online retail packing environment to accommodate a 400% surge in demand during the Christmas season. My strategy included expanding operations into an unused space to manage complex hampers, enhancing communication channels between a predominantly non-English-speaking team and senior staff, and devising a structured daily labor plan during peak periods. My commitment to clear, prompt, and respectful communication strongly aligns with NATS’ core values—critical for maintaining the safety and efficiency of intricate operations.