I’m a computational social scientist completing a PhD at the University of Pennsylvania, where my research focuses on using large language models (LLMs) and AI-based tools to advance the field of computational social science. My dissertation focuses on leveraging LLM-based models to analyze complex audio and text data, with podcasts as a primary case study. Specifically, I investigate how these models—ranging from transcription tools like OpenAI’s Whisper to content moderation systems such as OpenAI’s Moderation Endpoint and Anthropic’s Claude, and embedding models like Sentence-BERT and OpenAI embeddings—can be utilized effectively while ensuring high internal, external, and measurement validity.
Central to my work are three objectives: auditing AI models to uncover inherent biases and understand their implications for academic and applied research; developing standardized workflows that support consistent, replicable research practices; and creating robust validation frameworks to ensure model outputs align with theoretical constructs. This interdisciplinary approach combines advanced computational techniques, measurement theory, and statistical modeling to address critical challenges in AI system evaluation.
Previously, I have published work on political ideology, affective polarization, and questionable and open research practices. My research has been featured in top-tier journals, including Science Advances, British Journal of Political Science, Journal of Communication, and Political Psychology, among others. With a strong foundation in both methodological rigor and interdisciplinary collaboration, my research aims to bridge the gap between AI advancements and their application in understanding and addressing real-world societal issues.
Education
University of Pennsylvania
PhD | Sept 2021 - Present
The Wharton School at University of Pennsylvania
MA in Statistics and Data Science | 2023
University of Amsterdam
MSc in Political Communication | 2021
UC Santa Barbara
BA in Political Science and Psychology | 2014
Experience
The Wharton School | Statistics and Data Science Lecturer
July 2022 - Present
University of Pennsylvania | Computational Research Fellow
Sept 2021 - Present