ALAN VARUGHESE
Northwich
Summary
Highly motivated First Class Honours and Postgraduate Diploma holder with a proven passion for Cybersecurity. Proficient in offensive and defensive security principles, network analysis (Nmap, Burp Suite), and digital forensics (EnCase). Seeking a challenging Graduate Cyber Security role to leverage academic research in threat management and practical experience from training and placement.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
2026
2026
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work history
Cyber Security Contractor
National Cyber Resilience Centre Group
Derby
08.2022 - 10.2025
- Security Assessment & Pentesting: Conducted comprehensive penetration testing and vulnerability assessments using tools (Nmap, Burp Suite, Dirbuster, Metasploit) to identify and mitigate critical weaknesses across client infrastructure.
- Web Application Security: Performed security testing to detect and mitigate threats such as SQL injection, XSS, and CSRF; executed network scanning and reconnaissance to uncover entry points.
- Reporting & Mitigation: Identified and reported security vulnerabilities, documenting findings in detailed reports that included risk assessments, actionable mitigation strategies, and compliance recommendations.
- Cybersecurity Training Delivery: Delivered comprehensive security awareness training to a group of 20 participants, clearly demonstrating strong presentation and communication skills.
- Phishing & Threat Education: Developed and presented modules on phishing detection (using real-world examples) and educated staff on essential cyber defence practices (MFA, timely updates, and proactive threat intelligence tools like Have I Been Pwned).
Computer Science Tutor
Software Academy UK
Birmingham, West Midlands
09.2023 - 08.2025
- Curriculum Delivery: Instructed students (ages 8-16) in Python programming, Object-Oriented Programming (OOP), Pygame, and Tkinter, strictly adhering to organisational curriculum standards.
- Adaptive Teaching: Managed classes of up to 8 students, adapting teaching methods to accommodate varying capabilities and learning difficulties while fostering an inclusive environment.
- Project Design & Mentorship: Designed interactive coding projects to reinforce learning; provided one-on-one mentorship to address individual needs and promote problem-solving skills.
- Stakeholder Communication: Maintained clear, consistent communication with parents regarding student progress and development areas.
Education
Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) - Cyber Security
University of Birmingham
Birmingham 09.2023 - 09.2025
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) - Cyber Security
University of Derby
DerbySkills
- Problem-Solving
- Communication & Documentation
- Python Programming
- Vulnerability Assessments
- Cryptography
- Security Awareness Training
- Time Management
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Adaptability
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
TryHackMe, Remote
- Through my participation in TryHackMe, I have explored various hacking techniques and gained crucial insights into preventing them. Extensive lab work, research, and theory-based content have honed my skills in identifying vulnerabilities and implementing effective security measures.
Udemy Courses, Remote
- Active participation in Udemy courses on ethical hacking and penetration testing has equipped me with practical skills to identify vulnerabilities, exploit weaknesses, and conduct thorough security assessments. Hands-on experience with industry-standard tools such as Kali Linux, Metasploit, and Wireshark, along with simulating real-world attacks, has enabled me to effectively assess system security postures and provide actionable recommendations for enhancing security measures.
Sports and Recreation
- Achieving a blackbelt in Taekwondo has instilled in me a strong sense of dedication, discipline, and determination. The rigorous training and commitment required to achieve this feat demonstrate my ability to set goals, work persistently, and strive for excellence.
- I actively participate in local sports teams for cricket and badminton, which has enhanced my teamwork and leadership skills. Additionally, I enjoy playing football, which keeps me fit and fosters a strong sense of camaraderie with my peers.
Certification
Chainalysis Cryptocurrency Fundamentals Certification (CCFC)
- Demonstrated expertise in Blockchain Analysis and Cryptocurrency Compliance, including transaction monitoring, industry typologies, and regulatory oversight.
- Mastered the fundamentals of underlying blockchain technology, understanding the mechanics of Bitcoin and common Altcoins from transaction processing to block creation.
- Analysed the crypto ecosystem to evaluate risk, identify key actors, and assess key regulatory and privacy developments relative to traditional financial systems.
- Proficient in using Block Explorers to trace transactions for compliance and risk management purposes.
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) - Cyber Security
University of Birmingham
09.2023 - 09.2025
Computer Science Tutor
Software Academy UK
09.2023 - 08.2025
Cyber Security Contractor
National Cyber Resilience Centre Group
08.2022 - 10.2025
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) - Cyber Security
University of Derby