NOMINATION HIGHLIGHTS

Manasa Pisipati represents a unique subset of cybersecurity professionals specializing in the intersection of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and data science.

Colleagues and mentors consistently recognize her cooperative working style, collaborative approach to conflict resolution, and ability to navigate diverse teams ranging from junior analysts to senior executives. She brings both technical depth and emotional intelligence to high-impact security environments. In a field often driven by reactive responses to evolving threats, she brings proactive, structured analysis and human-centered insight.

Early in her career, Manasa has already made a name for herself as a Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst at a leading global cybersecurity firm that serves Fortune 500 organizations. In this role, she acts as the primary intelligence point of contact, providing insights that enhance the security posture of global organizations. Leveraging her background in data analytics, she applies the skill of “security storytelling,” translating complex threat landscapes into clear and strategic narratives.

Beyond enterprise work, she has published multiple peer-reviewed research papers in premier venues, including in IEEE (INDICON), Springer (LNNS), and ACM (CSCW). Her research focuses on trust and risk perception in intelligent systems and the application of machine learning to behavioural and biometric security.

In addition to her industry and research contributions, Manasa actively leads and mentors others, fostering a sense of community and inspiring future cybersecurity professionals. During her undergraduate studies, she served as a mentor in the Institute’s Counselling Services, providing academic and socio-cultural support while coordinating initiatives for international students.

Recognizing the need for peer-driven support, she founded the Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) Student Chapter at Penn State to promote women’s education, participation, and leadership in cybersecurity through community events and professional development workshops. As an active Alumna Mentor in the College of IST at Penn State she continues to mentor students and at the enterprise level, has led training and engagement programs, such as initiatives during Cybersecurity Awareness Month.

With two master’s degrees and industry certifications including CompTIA Security+ and ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity, Manasa demonstrates proven technical cybersecurity knowledge and industry impact. As a junior cybersecurity professional, she has already contributed meaningfully across enterprise environments, academic research, and mentorship communities.