Submitting Proposals
Thank you for your interest in becoming a guest speaker at the 2026 Information Security Symposium.
Theme: ENGAGE – Collaboration, Innovation, and Shared Responsibility in Cybersecurity
Dates: May 12–13, 2026 (Virtual | Two Half-Day Sessions)
Invitation
The UC Davis Information Security Symposium invites proposals for presentations, case studies, panels, and interactive sessions. The 2026 theme, ENGAGE, emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and shared responsibility across higher education cybersecurity. We seek practical, forward-thinking contributions that foster cross-campus learning, showcase real-world solutions, and inspire our professional community.
Symposium Format
· Two virtual half-day sessions (May 12–13, 2026)
· 2–3 concurrent sessions per block (panels strongly encouraged)
· 45–50 minute session lengths, including Q&A
· Keynote addresses framing each day
Tracks & Sample Proposal Topics
1. AI & Security (Anchor Track)
Artificial Intelligence is reshaping cybersecurity — from emerging threats to automated defenses and governance.
Sample Topics:
· AI-driven SOC operations & automation
· Adversarial AI, data poisoning & model integrity
· California AI guardrails and responsible AI policy
· UC/DEF CON case applications of AI in research security
2. Training & Workforce Development
A resilient cybersecurity program begins with skilled and prepared people.
Sample Topics:
· Secure coding & software assurance practices
· Hands-on incident response / tabletop exercises
· Building a culture of security awareness in faculty/staff
3. Outreach / Train-the-Trainer
Security only scales when shared. This track focuses on equipping professionals to take knowledge back to their campuses.
Sample Topics:
· UC-wide awareness campaigns & reusable toolkits
· Translating IS-3 / IS-12 for leadership and councils
· Academic freedom vs. institutional security
· Shared incident response playbooks & templates
4. Timely & Cross-Cutting Issues (Catch-All)
Focused on emerging, real-world challenges in higher education cybersecurity.
Sample Topics:
· Vendor and third-party risk management
· Privacy and data governance (FERPA/HIPAA/CCPA)
· Crisis communications during cyber incidents
· Disaster recovery & continuity planning
· Lessons from recent higher-ed breach events
Who Should Submit
· UC and higher education IT/security professionals
· Researchers, faculty & AI/cyber policy contributors
· Legal, compliance & risk officers
· Graduate students and emerging practitioners
Benefits of Presenting
· Showcase solutions & lessons across the UC system
· Gain recognition as a thought leader or practitioner
· Contribute to a stronger, collaborative security community
Submission Guidelines
Please submit:
1. Session Title
2. Abstract (150–200 words) with goals and takeaways
3. Presenter(s) – name, title & affiliation
4. Preferred Format: Presentation, Panel, or Case Study
Submission Deadline: February 21, 2026
Selection Process
Submissions will be reviewed by the Curriculum Committee to ensure a diverse, non-commercial, and high-quality program aligned with the ENGAGE theme.
Registration
Registration is complimentary for all presenters and attendees. All presenters must register to receive access credentials.