The Texas Tech University System has partnered with the FBI to enhance national security, cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection. The partnership was formalized through the signing of a cooperative research and development agreement at the institution’s System Building in Lubbock, Texas, on Aug. 18, TTU said Monday.
The representatives who signed the agreement include FBI Operations Director of the Criminal and Cyber Branch Chad Yarbrough, Congressman Jodey Arrington, TTU President Lawrence Schovanec, Angelo State University President Ronnie Hawkins and TTU System Vice Chancellor of Innovation and Collaboration Stephen Bayne.
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FBI Cooperative Research & Development Agreement Details
The newly signed CRADA seeks to provide more advanced research, better student training, and stronger defenses for sectors like energy, healthcare, water and defense. Under the agreement, the FBI will use TTU’s Critical Infrastructure Security Institute, or CISI, for research on protecting vital systems, including water utilities, military assets, communication systems, the electric grid and other infrastructure. The agreement also allows FBI to use ASU’s national security resources, including its work with Goodfellow Air Force Base, cybersecurity programs certified by the National Security Agency and its Regional Security Operations Center, which provides real-time defense for West Texas communities and training for students.
FBI’s Chad Yarbrough, Texas Tech University’s Lawrence Schovanec Share Thoughts
Commenting on the partnership, Yarbrough said that protecting Americans includes safeguarding critical infrastructures from foreign and domestic enemies.
“Working with academic partners like the Texas Tech University System is just one of the many ways the FBI seeks to mitigate these threats and advance cybersecurity and the security of critical infrastructure,” he said, adding that the FBI looks forward to a continued partnership with TTU.
Schovanec said, “Texas Tech University is proud to stand alongside the FBI and Angelo State University in this important partnership to strengthen the security of our nation’s critical infrastructure.”
“This collaboration builds on our university’s research strengths and our commitment to preparing the next generation of leaders who will protect and serve our country,” he added.
