Dr. Riccardo Paccagnella

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Riccardo Paccagnella is an Assistant Professor at Carnegie Mellon University in the Software and Societal Systems Department. His research focuses on cybersecurity, specifically in the area of Android security. He has contributed to uncovering new classes of Android attacks, including 'Pixnapping', which stealthily steals sensitive information displayed on screen. Paccagnella's work emphasizes the importance of securing applications and user data against evolving threats in the information security landscape. He is also involved in various academic conferences, presenting research on pressing topics in cybersecurity and collaborating with students and faculty across multiple departments. Paccagnella actively participates in CyLab initiatives, overseeing funding for student research projects in the realm of security and privacy.

Research Interests

Requirements for Carnegie Mellon University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.5
GRE General
Verbal
Required:158
Quantitative
Required:149
Analytical Writing
Required:4
Overall
Required:4
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Psychology or related field Research experience/publications
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Transcripts
  • GRE scores (optional but reported in profile)
  • English Proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo)
Specialization Notes

Admission is extremely competitive with no strict GPA cut-offs; holistic review is used.