Hello, I'm Arun.
I am a cybersecurity researcher and engineer with over twenty years of experience protecting critical systems — from spacecraft and smart grids to the collaboration tools millions of people use every day. Currently a Principal Security Researcher at Microsoft working at the intersection of cybersecurity and AI; previously led cyber defense engineering and research at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
Over the years, I have found that my greatest joy comes from solving challenging and ill-defined problems, and increasingly, problems with real societal impact. The advances in AI have let us dream bigger and take on harder challenges, and I have been actively exploring their potential across domains, especially healthcare and education. While I remain committed to advancing cybersecurity, I am equally dedicated to sharing what I learn — through writing, speaking, and mentoring the next generation.
Selected projects
View all →Ikigai Workbook
A single-page app to map what you love, what you're good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.
Celestial Watchface
A Garmin Venu 3 watchface that lets you observe the night sky from any of the nine classical planets. Search and download it on the Connect IQ app store.
Recent writing
View all →Background
Ph.D. in Computer Science from USC (2015). Experience across startups, academia, semi-government and industry. A decade at NASA JPL building and leading cyber defense for space missions. Now at Microsoft protecting Microsoft Teams users at scale from the growing social-engineering threats.
Beyond work
I am a lifelong learner, always challenging myself to pick up something new. My kids and wife are my inspiration, and in a way my mentors. Lately that's meant learning the piano, trying my hand at skating and skiing, starting to write, and teaching myself 3D modeling. I also love DIY projects, putting my 3D printer and Cricut to good use at every opportunity. Away from the screen, you will find me at the gym, biking, or hiking.