Shandong University President Li Shucai (R) awards an honorary professorship certificate to Professor Bart Preneel. [Photo/Shandong University]

Professor Bart Preneel from University of Leuven in Belgium visited Shandong University on Dec 11 and 12. The university's president, Li Shucai, met with him and conferred upon him the title of honorary professor at Shandong University.

Preneel, who is also an academician of the European Academy of Sciences and president of the International Association for Cryptologic Research, delivered an academic lecture titled "Cybersecurity and AI: Synergy or Dystopia". In the lecture, he talked about the groundbreaking advancements of artificial intelligence in areas such as malware detection. He analyzed the security risks posed by automated network attacks, the spread of false information, and deepfakes.

During the meeting, Li expressed hope that both sides would seize the opportunity to enhance collaboration in all areas.

This collaboration would involve in-depth exchanges between scholars and joint high-level talent cultivation in areas such as cryptanalysis, post-quantum cryptography, and AI security, Li said.

Preneel acknowledged the esteemed reputation of Shandong University's cryptography team in Europe and highlighted many achievements made through their collaboration, which have propelled advancements in the field of cryptography.

He expressed his hope that the two parties will deepen their institutional partnership and further enhance multi-level cooperation to collectively expand the boundaries of science.

A symposium was held on specific areas of cooperation between the two sides. Preliminary cooperation agreements were reached on a joint graduate program and the establishment of a joint laboratory.