The University of Waterloo Cybersecurity and Privacy Institute (CPI) is pleased to welcome Dr. Adam Molnar as the Interim Executive Director of CPI. Molnar, who has been a CPI faculty member for over six years, is appointed in the position for a one-year term. 

“As a CPI member and the Arts representative on CPI’s Faculty Advisory Committee, Professor Molnar is poised to hit the ground running in his new role,” says Dr. Charmaine Dean, Vice-President, Research & International of Waterloo. 

Molnar joined the Department of Sociology & Legal Studies in 2019. In his new role, he stewards an interdisciplinary vision that connects technical, human, and governance dimensions to address complex digital risks. Rather than working in isolation, Professor Molnar facilitates a dynamic, collaborative environment to bridge the many disciplines that intersect within CPI. 

His expertise in interdisciplinary scholarship, recently highlighted in his guest-editorship for the Internet Policy Review, helps him identify the integrated methodologies required for researchers in computer science, engineering, and the social sciences to work together effectively. This approach strengthens CPI as a leading hub where the University’s faculty translate technical innovation into integrated, real-world impact.  

Molnar’s leadership arrives at a critical time as Statistics Canada reports that 70% of Canadians experienced a cybersecurity incident in 2022, which is up from 58% in 2020. CPI meets this challenge by advancing information security and human privacy through interdisciplinary research, professional training, and national collaboration to build a more secure and resilient digital society. 

Under his stewardship, the Institute will prioritize strategic growth and organizational sustainability, building upon the Global Futures Funding awarded by the University of Waterloo in late 2025.  

“I am excited to be on board CPI as the Interim Executive Director,” said Molnar. “I am consistently inspired by the incredible talent across our faculties, and I look forward to integrating our diverse disciplines to drive meaningful impact for our communities and partners as we forge ahead together.”