Featured Alumni & Faculty
Welcome to our collection of alumni and faculty stories from the PhD program in Societal Computing at Carnegie Mellon's School of Computer Science. Through these features, you’ll discover the groundbreaking research, real-world impact, and unique experiences that shape our program. Whether it's tackling societal challenges through innovative technology, exploring the intersection of computing and social issues, or learning from our world-class faculty, these stories offer a firsthand look at what it means to be part of this dynamic community. Dive in to learn more about the people and ideas driving change in Societal Computing.
Coding for a Cause
Andrew Begel, professor in Carnegie Mellon's Societal Computing PhD program, is breaking new ground by blending software engineering with social impact. His pioneering work champions neurodiversity and builds inclusive pathways for tech careers...
Blending Boundaries: Peter Story's Societal Computing Odyssey at CMU
Explore Peter Story's transition from a liberal arts degree to a PhD in Societal Computing at CMU, blending tech and ethics to tackle the real-world impact of technology on society.
Kenny Joseph’s Insightful Take on Societal Computing at CMU
Explore Kenny Joseph's unique perspective on how CMU’s Societal Computing PhD bridges computing and social good, with a focus on building technology with and for marginalized communities. Discover why he believes CMU offers unmatched opportunities.
Christine Lepird on Tackling Fake News and Privacy in Societal Computing
Discover how Christine Lepird’s time in CMU’s Societal Computing PhD program fueled her passion for combating fake news and privacy issues. Now a graduate, she continues to address some of society's most pressing challenges in tech.
PK’s Path: From CMU PhD to Advancing Cybersecurity and Privacy Research
PK, a CMU Societal Computing PhD graduate, shares his journey from Chennai to faculty at IIIT Delhi. Explore how his research in cybersecurity, privacy, and online social media continues to shape solutions for real-world societal issues.
Inside CMU's Societal Computing: A Program Overview with Nicolas Christin
Join Nicolas Christin, CMU's Societal Computing PhD former Program Director, as he explores how computer scientists tackle real-world societal challenges. Discover the unique interdisciplinary culture at CMU that prepares students to make a meaningful impact.
Exploring Data Privacy: Norman Sadeh's Research in Societal Computing
Join Norman Sadeh as he explores groundbreaking research on data privacy at CMU, including personalized privacy assistants, privacy policy analysis, and tools for developers and regulators. Learn how his work is shaping the future of privacy in our data-centric world.
Lorrie Cranor: Simplifying Security and Privacy for Everyday Users
Lorrie Cranor’s research at CMU focuses on making security and privacy tools easier to use, from improving password creation to simplifying privacy policies and IoT data control. Discover how her work is shaping real-world products and policies.
Mayank Goel: Transforming Health with Smartphone Sensing Technologies
Mayank Goel leverages smartphones and wearables to tackle global health challenges like asthma, tuberculosis, and ADHD. Discover how his innovative sensing solutions aim to revolutionize healthcare through accessible and portable technology.
Yuvraj Agarwal: Innovating IoT and Privacy Solutions with Synergy Labs
Yuvraj Agarwal and his team at Synergy Labs are revolutionizing the Internet of Things with advanced hardware, machine learning, and privacy-focused solutions. Explore their groundbreaking work in making IoT devices smarter, more secure, and easier to use.
Bogdan Vasilescu: Improving Open Source Collaboration and Diversity
Bogdan Vasilescu explores the socio-technical dynamics of open source software development, focusing on team collaboration, diversity challenges, and improving platforms like GitHub. Discover how his research aims to create more inclusive and productive open source communities.
Fei Fang: Leveraging AI for Social Good and Security Solutions
Fei Fang’s research at CMU harnesses AI to tackle societal challenges, from improving security patrols to addressing sustainability and mobility issues. Discover how advances in AI are driving innovative solutions for real-world problems.
Societal Computing at CMU: Tackling Critical Challenges with Technology
Discover how CMU’s Societal Computing PhD program empowers students to solve pressing global issues like data privacy, sustainability, and security using advanced computing techniques. Learn how graduates are leading in academia, industry, and beyond.