Interview with Amit Rechavi

In a few words, can you tell us about yourself and how you found your way to the academic field?

I have more than twenty-five years of practical experience in the field of information systems, ten years' experience in facilitating projects, and more than ten years of research experience in the field of social networks and information, as an independent researcher and member of the research and academic research groups.

What is the main core of your research? Can you give an example or two? How is it related to cyber security?

I specialize in the analysis of data and networks, and networks' topology, groups, and members. I explore both the dynamics of networks and the data (events), which is transferred across systems. My training combines the study of economics (BA), Management Information Systems and Technologies (M.Sc.), and extensive theory and practice of networks (Ph.D.), with a unique focus on Privacy and human-computer interface (Post-doctoral). My research is quantitative and combines network analysis (SNA), statistical tools, Big-data techniques, and relevant learning theories. It incorporates technology tools to collect and analyze data-sets with theories concerning human behavior, social behavior, and human-machine interfaces.

Why did you choose this area over all others? Did your personal or professional background lead you to it?

Networks and their inner-relations always fascinated me. Understanding the role os a single node and its relations to its community. The change over time of these relations is the most challenging issue.

Do you think that in this cyber age these issues are even more complex compared to other times in history? If so – in what ways?

Networks are apparent everywhere. The digital \ cyber age makes it easier to get data. The amount volume of data enables us to map, analyze and understand more and more complex systems, and networks are such systems.

After explaining the main core of your research, what do you think is the solution? What is the proper model for that? Is it applicable?

Mapping networks, understanding them, and trying to predict their future behavior is still the main challenge.

What is the next phase in your professional life?

Keep on researching networks in various disciplines.

What is your message to the public?

Understand the network which surround you, and be able to make better decisions.