Dr Maryam Bagheri PhD
Senior Lecturer in Cyber Security and Computer Networks
Summary
I am a Senior Lecturer in Cyber Security and Computer Networks at Sheffield Hallam University. My main research areas are Software-Defined Networking (SDN), network automation and programmability, Internet of Things (IoT), and cybersecurity.
I am a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) and a Cisco Networking Academy instructor.
About
My research primarily focuses on Network Automation and Software-Defined Networking (SDN) to address the growing complexity and security needs of modern network infrastructures. I focus on adaptive, secure, and intelligent SDN architectures that can dynamically respond to varying demands and threats, tailored to the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and healthcare systems. Additionally, my current research emphasises green and sustainable networking, aiming to optimise resource utilisation and reduce energy consumption within network infrastructure.
I have also been working in research related to the Internet of Things (IoT), from smart campus design to IoT forensics and IoT applications in healthcare. I work on the development of IoT-enabled solutions that enhance patient care and improve the monitoring of health conditions.
I currently lead and teach several modules that are closely aligned with industry recognised certifications, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary for managing modern enterprise networks. These modules cover core areas such as routing, switching, network troubleshooting, network security and virtualisation. In response to evolving industry demands, I have developed new teaching materials and hands-on laboratory activities that cover network automation and programmability in line with the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) and Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Enterprise Core curriculum.
I have also designed comprehensive module content for Internet of Things (IoT). These materials cover IoT fundamentals, including essential components, communication protocols, and real-world applications. To ensure students gain practical experience, I have incorporated hands-on implementation exercises using microcontrollers, enabling them to design and deploy IoT solutions.
I actively supervise final-year undergraduate, master’s, and PhD projects.
Teaching
School of Computing and Digital Technologies
College of Business, Technology and Engineering
Cyber Security and Computer Networks
MSc Advanced Computer Networks
BSc Computer Networks
BSc Cyber Security
BSc Cyber Security with Forensics
Enterprise network Project
Network Automation and Programmability
Network Security
Enterprise networks
Computer Systems and Architecture
Research
Research Interest:
- Software-Defined Networking (SDN)
- Network automation and programmability
- Intent-Based Networking (IBN)
- Green and Sustainable Network Architecture
- Network security
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Cybersecurity
Current Projects:
- Enhancing Enterprise Network Security: SASE Architecture with the Integration of SD-WAN and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), May 2024
- Secure eHealth Mobile App for Activity Detection and Behavioural Analysis, May 2024
- Software Defined Networking (SDN) Solutions for Enterprise Networks - 2022
Publications
Conference papers
David, O., Thornley, P., & Bagheri, M. (2023). Software defined networking (SDN) for campus networks, WAN, and datacenter. 2023 International Conference on Smart Applications, Communications and Networking (SmartNets). http://doi.org/10.1109/smartnets58706.2023.10215722
Thornley, P., & Bagheri, M. (2021). Software-Defined Networking: Open-Source Alternatives for Small to Medium Sized Enterprises. In International Conference on Advanced Information Networking and Applications, (pp. 188-199). Springer International Publishing: http://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-75078-7_20
Bagheri, M., & Haghighi Movahed, S. (2017). The Effect of the Internet of Things (IoT) on Education Business Model. 2016 12th International Conference on Signal-Image Technology & Internet-Based Systems (SITIS), 435-441. http://doi.org/10.1109/SITIS.2016.74
Bagheri, M., & Haghighi Movahed, S. (2016). An investigation into finding the most influential factors in developing a Personalized Learning Environment for Higher Education. In Shoniregun, C.A., & Akmayeva, G.A. (Eds.) Ireland International Conference on Education (IICE-2016), (pp. 90-95). Dublin: Infonomics Society: http://www.iicedu.org/IICE-2016-October/IICE-2016-Proceedings.pdf
Book chapters
Janarthanan, T., Bagheri, M., & Zargari, S. (2021). IoT Forensics: An Overview of the Current Issues and Challenges. In Advanced Sciences and Technologies for Security Applications. (pp. 223-254). Springer International Publishing: http://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-60425-7_10
Other activities
I am currently the Internationalisation Lead in the School of Computing. In this role, I have successfully secured external and internal funding to initiate and support a diverse range of international initiatives. These include organising the International Teaching Week, which promotes global academic exchange by bringing together students and faculty from partner institutions. Additionally, I have co-led the development of the “Adventures in Networking” event, designed to connect industry leaders in the fields of networking and security with students, facilitating knowledge exchange, professional development, and engagement with current trends and practices in these areas.
Further contributions include the facilitation of Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) projects, which enable students to engage in cross-border teamwork and gain international perspectives through virtual collaboration. I have also organised short-term mobility programs with partner universities, providing students with valuable global exposure and cross-cultural learning experiences.
Postgraduate supervision
I am available to supervise new doctoral candidates who are seeking self-funded PhD position. For any inquiries or to explore potential research topics, please feel free to contact me via email.