Title:
The Case for Open-Source Silicon in Cryptography Research
Abstract:
Modern digital IC design heavily relies on design automation tools and technology libraries. Traditionally, this technology has been protected as an asset through licenses and non-disclosure agreements. However, in the past few years, a myriad of new options based on open-source technology have become available, which affected not only the design automation tools and technology libraries, but also the hardware designs and design methodologies.
In this talk I will trace back the origin and rise of open-source in IC design, covering major successes as well as past setbacks and ongoing challenges. I will highlight the importance of open-source for the design and verification of cryptographic ICs and discuss the potential of open-source technology as a platform for novel cryptographic algorithms and test methodologies. I will conclude with practical pointers for those looking to build their own chip.
Speaker:
Patrick Schaumont
Professor, ECE Department, WPI
Bio:
Patrick Schaumont is a Dean’s Excellence Professor and Joseph Samuel Satin Distinguished Fellow in Electrical and Computer Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. His research focuses on secure, efficient, and real-time embedded computing systems. Schaumont has co-chaired leading conferences in cryptographic and secure engineering, including CRYPTO, CHES, HOST, and FDTC. He serves as the Editor-in-Chief for IEEE Transactions on Emerging Topics in Computing (2026-2027). He is a Fellow of the IEEE.
Link: https://schaumont.wpi.edu
Host: Professor John McNeill