About Me
I am a Full Professor in Computer Science at the Faculty of Sciences and Technologies of the University of Limoges. I conduct my research within the XLIM Laboratory (UMR CNRS 7252) and, since 2022, I am the head of the CREATE (CybeRsEcurity and Artificial inTElligence) team.
My research focuses on the intersection of cryptography, security, and AI applied to the Internet of Things (IoT). I primarily target cybersecurity, mobility, embedded systems (such as smart cards and RFID), and wireless communication. My scientific project follows a trajectory of increasing architectural complexity: starting from the logical security of constrained objects (Java Card), I now address hardware isolation locks in multi-core architectures and the sovereignty of autonomous systems.
A significant part of my work is dedicated to applied security and partner research. I forge strong links with industrial and institutional stakeholders (e.g., Thales DIS, Gendarmerie Nationale) to transfer our technological locks to environments requiring operational resilience in hostile or sensitive areas.
Academic & Scientific Responsibilities
Alongside my research, I am deeply committed to serving the academic and scientific communities:
- Honorary Dean of the Faculty of Sciences and Technologies (FST): I served a full mandate as Dean from October 2020 to October 2025, managing a component of 3,500 students, 200 faculty members, and 100 administrative staff.
- Former CDUS Board Member: In 2024 and 2025, I was an elected member of the board of the National Conference of Deans and Directors of Science Faculties (CDUS) in France.
- CNU 27: Between 2011 and 2019, I served as an elected member of the National Council of Universities (CNU 27) for Computer Science in France.
- IFIP WG 11.2 Chair: I chaired the International Federation for Information Processing (IFIP) Working Group on Pervasive Systems Security from 2014 to 2022, having previously served as Vice-Chair.
Research & Academic Impact
- Projects & Industrial Links: I have been involved in more than 40 research projects since 2010 (15 as PI or co-PI), involving European, national, and industrial fundings. This includes active partner research resulting in critical CVEs and industrial patents.
- Digital Forensics: As a lead researcher within the HuNum Chair (in partnership with the Gendarmerie Nationale), I direct the “Biometrics and IoT” cluster, developing advanced protocols for data extraction from damaged digital media.
- Health Data Security: I am the co-PI of the CV-SAN-T Chair of Excellence (Cybersecurity, Privacy, and Trust for Health, 2023-2027). This €1.1 million project aims to protect health data throughout its entire lifecycle by combining software solutions (cryptography, AI, isolation) and physical security, while integrating human and legal factors to design acceptable tools and mitigate social engineering risks.
- Publications: I have co-authored over 110 research papers in international journals and conferences.
- Supervision & Juries: I have successfully supervised 7 PhD theses in the last 8 years, and I have served as an external reviewer or examiner for nearly 30 PhD theses internationally and in France.
Teaching
My teachings primarily target Master’s students in Computer Science. My main courses are related to Secure Embedded Systems, Smart Cards and Java Card Development, Certification and Secure Development, as well as Computer Networks and Cybersecurity.
Awards & Distinctions
- Premium for Scientific Excellence (PES / PEDR / RIPEC C3): Continuously held since 2012 (renewed in 2016, 2020, and 2024).
- IFIP Silver Core Award (2013): Received in recognition of services rendered to the international scientific community.
Contact
- Email: damien.sauveron@unilim.fr
- Lab: CREATE Team, XLIM UMR CNRS 7252