Samuel Wagstaff

Pioneering solutions for emerging issues in computational sciences, Professor Samuel Wagstaff is an Emeritus Professor of Computer Sciences at Purdue University. With a distinguished career that spans several decades, he has made significant contributions to the fields of cryptography, parallel computation, algorithm analysis, and number theoretic algorithms. As a CERIAS Fellow, his work has been instrumental in advancing the understanding and application of secure communication systems. Professor Wagstaff's academic journey began with a B.S. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, followed by a Ph.D. from Cornell University. His scholarly pursuits have taken him to prestigious institutions such as the Universities of Rochester, Illinois, and Georgia, where he has shared his expertise and mentored countless students and researchers. Among his notable achievements, Professor Wagstaff co-authored the influential book "Cryptanalysis of Number Theoretic Ciphers," which has become a key resource for those studying the vulnerabilities and strengths of cryptographic systems. His innovative work in constructing a special processor with J. W. Smith for factoring large integers with parallel capability has set a benchmark in computational efficiency and security. Throughout his career, Professor Wagstaff has been dedicated to the analysis of algorithms, focusing on developing efficient and secure methods for data processing and encryption. His research has not only contributed to theoretical advancements but also to practical applications that enhance the security and performance of modern computing systems. As an esteemed member of the academic community, Professor Wagstaff continues to inspire future generations of computer scientists through his research, publications, and collaborations. His legacy is marked by a commitment to excellence and a passion for solving complex problems in the ever-evolving landscape of computer science.