IEEE Cyber Awareness Research Symposium (CARS) 2026 Calls for Participation
April 13, 2026
IEEE-sponsored cybersecurity symposium at the University of North Dakota invites research submissions, features CTF competition, and offers $1,000 Best Paper Awards
The IEEE Cyber Awareness Research Symposium (CARS) 2026, an IEEE-sponsored forum dedicated to advancing research in cybersecurity, cyber awareness, and autonomous systems, will take place October 26–28, 2026, at the University of North Dakota.
Organizers are currently seeking participation from NSA-designated Centers of Academic Excellence (CAE) institutions. A Special Session will highlight contributions from CAE-affiliated faculty, researchers, and students, who are invited to submit original research papers for consideration. All accepted papers will be published through IEEE, ensuring broad dissemination and academic impact.
In addition to research presentations, the symposium will host a Capture-the-Flag (CTF) competition in partnership with MetaCTF, providing attendees with hands-on cybersecurity challenges.
To further recognize excellence, Best Paper Awards of $1,000 will be presented for outstanding contributions.
The event also welcomes sponsorship from organizations interested in supporting cybersecurity research and education. Sponsors will receive visibility among a broad academic and professional audience.
Important Dates:
June 15, 2026 – Full Paper Submission Deadline (11:00 PM CST)
July 30, 2026 – Notification of Acceptance
August 10, 2026 – Early Bird Registration Deadline
August 15, 2026 – Camera-Ready Submission
August 30, 2026 – Final Registration Deadline