COURSE OVERVIEW:

The meaning of this course centers on the protection of the laboratory’s most valuable intangible asset: its data. As laboratories transition to "Industry 4.0," the integration of Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), cloud-connected instruments, and remote monitoring has created a broad attack surface for cyber threats. This course provides the technical and strategic knowledge required to safeguard analytical results, intellectual property, and operational continuity from malicious actors and data breaches.

The scope of the training addresses the unique challenges of securing scientific environments where legacy instrument computers often coexist with modern enterprise networks. It covers the principles of data integrity, the implementation of robust access controls, and the hardening of both hardware and software against ransomware and phishing. Participants will explore the intersection of (Information Technology) and (Operational Technology) within the lab, focusing on how to maintain a secure perimeter without hindering scientific productivity.

The coverage includes a detailed investigation into network segmentation, encryption of scientific data, and the management of vendor access to connected instruments. The course also emphasizes the human element of security, providing strategies for training laboratory staff to recognize and report digital threats. By implementing these cyber-defense methodologies, laboratory managers can ensure that their facility remains compliant with FDA, ISO, and data privacy regulations while protecting the reputation of their organization.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

• Identify the primary cyber threats that modern laboratory environments face.
• Implement the principles of the CIA Triad (Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability).
• Secure Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) against unauthorized access.
• Harden legacy instrument workstations that lack modern security features.
• Design network segments to isolate sensitive analytical equipment.
• Manage user permissions and "Least Privilege" access models.
• Implement robust data backup and disaster recovery protocols.
• Evaluate the security risks of cloud-based scientific platforms.
• Recognize and mitigate social engineering and phishing attempts in the lab.
• Conduct a basic cyber-risk assessment for a laboratory facility.
• Ensure compliance with data integrity regulations such as 21 CFR Part 11.
• Develop an incident response plan for laboratory data breaches.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This course is intended for Laboratory Managers, IT Professionals, LIMS Administrators, Quality Assurance Officers, and Senior Scientists who manage digital laboratory infrastructure.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximize the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activity to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.