Kaustubh Chude

Infrastructure and AI Research Support Engineer trying to break into AI and Cyber Security

Welcome! I’m a dedicated Cybersecurity Professional with a strong foundation in network engineering, data centre administration, and cybersecurity research. I hold a Master’s degree in Cybersecurity from Queen’s University Belfast ,and my career journey is defined by a blend of hands-on technical expertise and a passion for solving complex security challenges.

Currently, I manage a 80 server – 10 Rack data centre and maintain a comprehensive network infrastructure, working with advanced technologies like VMware ESXi hypervisor, numerous Firewalls, networking equipment and backup solutions. My role demands precision, adaptability, and a deep understanding of systems at scale.

In addition to my infrastructure expertise, I am deeply involved in cybersecurity research, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to develop and test innovative security solutions. My work focuses on creating realistic testbeds that simulate complex environments, aggregating and analysing log data using SIEM tools like Elastic Stack, and generating attack traffic through custom scenarios.

These efforts are crucial for evaluating security postures, enhancing threat detection, and supporting advanced research initiatives. By blending practical application with experimental setups, I contribute to building dynamic environments that enable deeper insights into modern cybersecurity challenges.

Outside of my professional responsibilities, I am a lifelong learner. I’ve solved over 30 Hack The Box challenges, participated in CTFs, and am expanding my knowledge in AI and Machine Learning to understand their intersection with cybersecurity.

Work experience

Infrastructure and AI Research Support Engineer

Momentum One Zero , Belfast, UK / Aug 2024 - Present

Conducted advanced research in collaboration with a leading technology partner, leveraging innovative technologies like DPUs, , Morpheus Library and DFP to explore new paradigms in cybersecurity.
Collected and curated datasets from simulated attack environments to support AI/ML research initiatives.
Organized and executed hands-on cybersecurity challenges, creating dynamic environments for scanning, exploitation, and flag capture while collecting critical telemetry for analysis.
Provided guidance to analysts and researchers on navigating complex log data to identify threat patterns and improve detection strategies.
Successfully delivered a ransomware-focused testbed, enabling detailed analysis of attack behaviours and mitigation strategies.
Designed and deployed custom cybersecurity testbeds replicating corporate network environments, incorporating vulnerable systems for penetration testing and incident response exercises.
Spearheaded the deployment and maintenance of Elastic Stack from scratch, enabling log aggregation, visualization, and real-time threat analysis.

IT Security Support Assistant

ECIT ,Queens University Belfast / Jun 2023 - Aug 2024

IT Support : Delivered efficient resolution to daily technical issues, including hardware, software, and network troubleshooting, ensuring minimal downtime for end-users. Achieved high satisfaction ratings by providing timely and reliable assistance.
Cybersecurity Operations: Utilized tools such as CrowdStrike, Sentinel, and Nessus to monitor and respond to security alerts, improving overall incident response times and reducing vulnerabilities.
Process Automation: Developed and deployed a custom script to automate data migration from Dropbox to OneDrive, saving significant time and reducing manual effort.
Tool Deployment & Optimization: Played a pivotal role in deploying and testing CrowdStrike, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance. Conducted user training and provided ongoing support to maximize adoption.
Threat Management: Collaborated with the IT security team to analyse and mitigate threats, escalating incidents when necessary and contributing to a safer network environment.
Documentation & Reporting: Maintained comprehensive logs of incidents, resolutions, and security alerts to aid in trend analysis and inform decision-making for IT and security teams.

Cyber Risk Management Project Intern

CyberFrat ,Mumbai, India / Sept 2021 - Mar 2022

Developed risk heatmaps to visualize and assign risk levels across IT components, enabling better prioritization of remediation measures.
Researched and recommended cybersecurity strategies tailored to address industry-specific challenges and vulnerabilities.
Gained hands-on experience with globally recognized security frameworks, including NIST-CSF, ISO 27001, COBIT, and PCI-DSS, applying their principles to the project.
Collaborated with and received mentorship from seasoned professionals with over a decade of experience in information security.