University of Wolverhampton launches cyber resilience and AI centre

The University of Wolverhampton has established the Centre for Cyber Resilience and Artificial Intelligence (CYBRAI) in response to increasing cyber threats facing businesses and the role of artificial intelligence in strengthening digital security and economic competitiveness.

The centre aims to address growing regional and national needs for expertise in cyber security and AI research, innovation, and skills development. Recent cyber attacks on major UK retail companies including Harrods, M&S and Co-op have highlighted the escalating frequency and sophistication of digital threats.

Government statistics demonstrate the urgency of the initiative. The Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2025 revealed that 43% of businesses and 30% of charities experienced a cyber security breach or attack in the last 12 months, equating to approximately 612,000 UK businesses and 61,000 UK charities. Britain’s cyber security chief warned in December 2024 of a 16% rise in hostile activity in the country’s cyberspace compared to the previous year. A National Audit Office report in January 2025 also highlighted substantial gaps in cyber-resilience in 58 critical government IT systems.

CYBRAI will develop a cyber-resilient ecosystem for the West Midlands and beyond through research and initiatives. The centre will serve as a hub for collaboration, bringing together academia, industry, and government to tackle challenges in the digital landscape.

Artificial intelligence will form a crucial component of CYBRAI’s work, recognising its potential to defend against threats and drive economic growth. The UK government has stated that “AI drives the economic growth on which the prosperity of our people and the performance of our public services depend.” The national AI Opportunities Action Plan emphasises the need to “Position the UK to be an AI maker, not an AI taker” and significantly expand AI research capabilities. AI’s potential includes automating repetitive tasks, freeing up to 20% of employee time, and dramatically speeding up report generation.

Professor Prashant Pillai, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research and Knowledge Exchange) at the University of Wolverhampton, said: “The establishment of CYBRAI underscores the University’s commitment to addressing the critical challenges and opportunities presented by the digital revolution. This Centre will be a vital hub for research, innovation, and skills development in cyber resilience and AI, not only for our region but with national and international impact.”

Professor Zeeshan Pervez, Director of CYBRAI, added: “The University has a strong track record in cybersecurity research and education, including being named Cyber University of the Year. The Centre will continue the momentum of this success and will work with businesses and partners to deliver innovative cyber and AI solutions, whilst addressing the skills needs of the region and beyond.”

Image source: University Science Park, Wolverhampton