I’m Brianna but you can call me Breezy#
I’m currently pursuing an Honours Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity at Deakin University, with a WAM of 93 and a grade average of 96.8 for 2024. My commitment to academic excellence has earned me awards such as the Deakin Scholarship for Excellence and the Associate Dean Summer Research Scholarship. My Honours research focuses on developing a mathematical framework for optical xhaul network design to support reconfigurable 6G networks using O-RAN technology.
My Academic Journey#
Throughout my studies, I’ve achieved several academic highlights, including features in the Deakin Maths Yearbook for my HD reports on Cryptography (SIT192) Quantum Cryptography (SIT281) and Optimisation and Constraint Programming (SIT316). My current research focuses on telecommunication networks, particularly the planning and optimisation of optical xhaul networks to support reconfigurable O-RAN in 6G networks. This work builds on my previous research during the Associate Deakin Research Summer Scholarship, where I initially explored computer networks and developed a strong interest in Radio Access Networks (RAN).
I am now actively working on several papers, including one that has been accepted to the Optical Fiber Communications Conference (OFC). I’ve finalised a survey paper on reconfigurable RAN for IEEE, which discusses network planning, resource allocation, and the challenges of implementing beyond 5G networks. In progress I’m also working on an extension of the work done in OFC as well as one focused on the operations research side of the problem.
For a detailed overview of my accomplishments, visit Academic and Research Accomplishments and see Research to learn more about my research projects.
Projects#
During my time at university, I’ve developed a passion for teaching and sharing knowledge. I’ve created guides on topics such as computer networks, cryptography, and quantum cryptography, designed to help students understand complex concepts through tutorials, examples, and Python implementations.
To explore my guides in detail, visit my Projects Page.
My skill Set#
Through my university subjects and side projects I’ve developed skills in numerous programming languages. In addition, I’ve developed skills in tools and software that help boost my skill set. Recently, I switched from Windows to Linux to take advantage of its open-source nature and enhanced security.
Languages
Tools and Softwares
About Me#
I originally ventured into Cybersecurity during the rise of Global cyber threats in late 2022. What started out as curiosity quickly turned into me enrolling into my degree!
I quickly became interested in Cryptography after studying Discrete Mathematics where I received the grade of 95, I wasn’t a maths person prior to doing that subject, but the unit chair and content changed that for me. During my Cryptography subject I got to explore the world of Quantum Computing. I originally chose this topic for my HD tasks only because it seemed really cool! Boy did I have it in for myself though, I spent significant time having to learn physics and quantum physics to pull it off. But the hard work paid off, with the report being selected to be published in the Deakin Maths Yearbook. Making me the first person to be featured twice, let alone in the same year.
Over the 2023/2024 summer, I was fortunate to receive the Associate Deakin Research Summer Scholarship, where I began research into computer networks. Given the freedom to explore, I delved into areas of interest with my supervisor’s encouragement, ultimately discovering a passion for Radio Access Networks (RAN). This led me to focus on O-RAN and resource allocation for 6G networks.
Now, as an Honours student in telecommunications and computational mathematics, I’m developing a mathematical framework for optical xhaul network design, aimed at supporting cost-effective deployment strategies for future reconfigurable RAN and xhaul networks. Growing up in rural Australia, I understand firsthand the challenges of limited phone service, which fuels my dedication to this research.
Work Experience#
I have held multiple roles at Deakin University, ranging from academic support to curriculum development and now working within teaching as an Associate Teaching Fellow. My responsibilities include marking, conducting help hub sessions, and developing learning materials for computer networks and SAP. I have also contributed to the SMS Evaluation Team, facilitating evaluations and improvements for the student mentoring program.
For a complete summary of my work experience, visit Work Experience.
Capstone Subjects#
My Capstone projects have provided valuable opportunities to develop both technical and leadership skills. In Capstone A, I led the SplashKit tutorials team for Thoth Tech, and my efforts were rewarded with a perfect grade of 100. Capstone B focused on technical contributions to SplashKit core and the Splashkit website with usage examples and a beyond Splashkit project which also received a perfect grade of 100.
To learn more about my Capstone contributions, please visit Capstone Projects.
Get in Touch#
If you’d like to learn more about my work or get in touch, feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn.