Alissa Mezzacappa, Ph.D.
About Alissa Mezzacappa, Ph.D.
Alissa Mezzacappa, Ph.D., is an Information Security Data Scientist at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, where she has worked since 2018. She previously contributed to the ChemCam project on the Mars Science Laboratory Rover and holds a Ph.D. in Optics from Delaware State University.
Work at Federal Reserve Bank of New York
Alissa Mezzacappa has been employed as an Information Security Data Scientist at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York since 2018. In this role, she applies her expertise in data analysis and information security to enhance the bank's operational integrity. Her responsibilities include analyzing data to identify potential security threats and developing strategies to mitigate risks associated with information systems.
Education and Expertise
Alissa Mezzacappa holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Optics/Optical Sciences from Delaware State University, where she studied from 2009 to 2015. She also earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Physics from Vassar College, completing her studies there from 2005 to 2009. Additionally, she achieved the GIAC Certified Incident Handler certification from the SANS Technology Institute, which underscores her expertise in information security.
Background in Research and Analysis
Mezzacappa contributed to the ChemCam team on the Mars Science Laboratory Rover, where she analyzed optical sensing data from Mars. Her research included discovering a proxy-standard within the ChemCam data set using selection rules and characterizing univariate and quantitative bias due to measurement distance in the data. These contributions were recognized with two NASA Group Achievement Awards.
Previous Academic Roles
Prior to her current position, Alissa Mezzacappa served as an Adjunct Professor at The College of New Jersey from 2016 to 2017. She also held the position of Optics PhD Candidate at Delaware State University from 2009 to 2015. Her academic roles involved teaching and mentoring students in the field of optics and contributing to the academic community through research.
Publications and Citations
Alissa Mezzacappa has published eight peer-reviewed papers, which have garnered over 470 citations. Her research contributions, particularly in the field of optics and data analysis, reflect her active engagement in scholarly activities and her commitment to advancing knowledge in her areas of expertise.