Chris Peikert named Arthur W. Burks Collegiate Professor of Computer Science and Engineering

Prof. Chris Peikert has been awarded the Arthur W. Burks Collegiate Professorship in Computer Science and Engineering at the University of Michigan in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of cryptography. The newly established professorship honors the legacy of Arthur W. Burks, former U-M faculty member and a pivotal figure in early computing.

This honor recognizes Peikert’s pioneering research in quantum-secure and lattice-based cryptography. His work has been instrumental in advancing cryptographic techniques that are both efficient and resistant to various attacks, including those from future quantum computers. His contributions have led to the establishing of post-quantum cryptography standards that are in widespread use today.

In addition to his research achievements, Peikert has demonstrated excellence through education and service. He has improved and expanded U-M’s undergraduate computer science theory curriculum, developing specialized courses on advanced cryptography topics and enhancing the educational experience for students of all levels. As the current Associate Chair for Graduate Affairs, Peikert has played a central role in shaping graduate education in CSE and fostering a collaborative environment for students.

Prior to joining U-M, Peikert served on the faculty at Georgia Tech. Before that, he received his B.S. in mathematics and M.Eng. and Ph.D. in electrical engineering and computer science from MIT. His career has been marked by numerous accolades, including a Sloan Foundation Fellowship, the Bergmann Memorial Research Award, and multiple Best Paper and Test-of-Time awards at top conferences. Most recently, Peikert was named a Fellow of the International Association for Cryptologic Research (IACR), reflecting his influential contributions to the field of cryptography.

Peikert’s professorship honors the legacy of Arthur W. Burks, who cofounded U-M’s graduate program in computing in 1957, and who served as the first chair of the eventual Computer and Communication Sciences Department, which was formed in 1965. Prior to joining the U-M faculty, Burks assisted in the development of the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC), the first general-purpose electronic digital computer.

Peikert’s recognition as the first Arthur W. Burks Collegiate Professor of Computer Science and Engineering underscores his outstanding contributions to cryptography research and education, echoing Burks’s seminal achievements in shaping the future of computing.