ABOUT ME

Pandu Ranga Reddy Konala

I am deeply passionate about advancing knowledge in Computer Science, with a particular focus on code quality and cyber security in the applications of Infrastructure, AI, Quantum Computing and Robotics. My research centers on the automation of infrastructure configuration and securing production deployments, and I hold a deep appreciation for creativity and innovation across software, hardware, and the algorithmic arts.

Beyond my research, I'm an avid gamer who enjoys the strategic depth of Dota 2, the tactical realism of Arma 3, and the immersive storytelling of Assassin's Creed. I'm also passionate about tabletop gaming, particularly Warhammer 40K, where strategy meets craftsmanship. When I'm not at my desk, you'll find me exploring new places and cultures as travel fuels my curiosity and broadens my perspective on the world.

Learn more about my current work: Cyber Security Project at University of Waikato

View CV

Research Principles

Research

I'm passionate about staying abreast with the latest in technology, particularly through publications, conferences, and CTF competitions.

Design

Design serves as a bridge between explored concepts and innovation, transforming theoretical insights into tangible innovations.

Implementation

Technology possesses the transformative ability to reshape lives, and I aspire to keep pace with the latest advancements.

Education

Doctor of Philosophy

Computer Science

The University of Waikato, New Zealand

2022 - 2025

Master of Science

Cyber Security

Lancaster University, UK

2019 - 2020

Bachelor of Technology

Computer Science & Engineering

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, India

2015 - 2019

Certifications

2017 Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) Red Hat License No. 170-138-911

2017 Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) Red Hat License No. 170-138-911

2016 Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) EC-Council License No. ECC022209621222

Professional Experience

Apr 2022 - Jan 2026 Associate Scientist The University of Waikato Hamilton, New Zealand 3 Years & 9 Months

Sep 2022 - Aug 2024 Learning Technology & Research Support Specialist CeTTL, The University of Waikato Hamilton, New Zealand 1 Year & 11 Months

Jun-Aug 2020 Software Developer Quantum Base Lancaster, UK 3 months

Summer 2018 Information Security Analyst Intern Infosec Future Lucknow, India 8 weeks

Summer 2017 RedHat System Administrator Intern COSS Hyderabad, India 4 weeks

Summer 2016 Ethical Hacker Intern Star Computers Visakhapatnam, India 4 weeks

Freelance Work

Active Hack The Box Penetration Tester Rank: Pro Hacker View Profile

Aug 2024 Veridian Software Penetration Tester Remote 1 month

Teaching & Mentoring

Level 500 COMPX527 - Secure Cloud Application Engineering Postgraduate/Masters Mentoring & Paper Marking

Level 500 COMPX518 - Cyber Security Postgraduate/Masters Mentoring & Paper Marking

Level 300 COMPX323 - Advanced Database Concepts 3rd Year Undergraduate Mentoring & Paper Marking

Level 200 COMPX223 - Database Practice and Experience 2nd Year Undergraduate Mentoring & Paper Marking

Educational Activities

2022-2025 Organizer New Zealand Cyber Security Challenge (NZCSC) Organized for 500+ participants

Feb 2016 Workshop Organizer Amrita School of Engineering, India Organized a two-day ethical hacking bootcamp

Technical Skills

Java

Python

NodeJS

RHEL

Kali Linux

VMware

HTML/CSS

JavaScript

Wireshark

MATLAB