Meet Dr. Hadis Karimipour, Top 25 Women of Influence+ Award Recipient

Dr. Hadis Karimipour is the Canada Research Chair (Tier II) in Secure and Resilient Cyber-Physical Systems, Director of the Smart Cyber-Physical Systems (SCPS) Lab, and Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical and Software Engineering at the University of Calgary. A leading expert in AI-driven cybersecurity for critical infrastructure, IoT, and OT, her work addresses both national and global cyber threats. 

Her research pioneers the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Deep Learning (DL) in securing cyber-physical systems, tackling evolving threats in smart grids, IoT, and operational technology (OT). 

By developing AI-driven intrusion detection systems, adversarial learning models, and resilient security frameworks, Dr. Karimipour’s work strengthens infrastructure against cyberattacks, including state-sponsored threats and AI-powered adversarial exploits. Her contributions are instrumental in shaping next-generation cybersecurity solutions that balance intelligence, efficiency, and adaptability in an increasingly connected world. 

Beyond her technical expertise, Dr. Karimipour is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in STEM, amplifying underrepresented voices and creating opportunities for the next generation. Through leadership, mentorship, and public engagement, she works to inspire change and promote a more inclusive and equitable future in technology and cybersecurity.

Dr. Karimipour also engages in public education through media outlets such as CBC, CTV, and Global, as well as events like the Women in Data Science (WiDS) Conference and IEEE Women in Engineering. She serves on multiple committees, including Canada’s National Strategy for Critical Infrastructure Policy Renewal and ISO/IEC AI and Cybersecurity Standards. Her research has earned her global recognition, including being named among Canada’s Top 10 Under 40 in Security (2024), one of the Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada (2024), and Avenue Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40 (2023).