University secures grant to appoint Visiting Professor with globally recognised expertise in cyber security

David Lannin, who has three decades of experience designing and delivering cyber security services worldwide, will join Leeds Trinity's Computer Science team through a grant awarded to the University by the Royal Academy of Engineering's Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, via their Visiting Professors Scheme. 

Over the next three years, he will support the development of the Computer Science provision through curriculum design, guest lectures, workshops, mentoring, and industry engagement activities. David will also assist with the development of Security Operations Centre (SOC)-based learning experiences, which will see students work through realistic cyber security scenarios, finding solutions and making decisions about how organisations should respond to cyber-attacks.  

Dr Antesar Shabut, Programme Lead for Computer Science, and Academic Champion for the Visiting Professor grant, said: "Securing this grant is a testament to our commitment to integrate industry expertise within our Computer Science and Cyber Security programmes, allowing our students to benefit from authentic, real-world experiences that enhance their technical skills, professional readiness, and understanding of contemporary cyber security practice." 

Leeds Trinity's Computer Science provision is ranked 2nd in Yorkshire and 13th in the UK by the Guardian University Guide 2027, as well as 1st for Student Satisfaction in Yorkshire and the Humber by the Complete University Guide 2027, recognising its career-led teaching, where key tech employers are involved at every stage of the course, from curriculum design to placement opportunities. Work placements have been part of Leeds Trinity's degree programmes since 1975, contributing to economic growth by creating highly employable graduates whose skills meet competitive industry demands.  

David Lannin said: "I am thrilled to be joining the University as a Visiting Professor and look forward to bringing an industry-led perspective to the curriculum. My aim is to help students gain a deeper understanding of how cyber security is delivered in real-world environments and to equip them with the knowledge, skills, and industry awareness needed to thrive in their future careers." 

Dr Nicky Danino, Head of School of Computing and Creative Industries at Leeds Trinity University added: "We're delighted to welcome David to Leeds Trinity University. His insight, professional experience, and passion for innovation will be hugely valuable in helping our students apply the knowledge and skills they develop at university to real-world computing settings." 

To find out more about studying Computer Science at Leeds Trinity University, visit the website.