Emma Szczesniak
Emma Szczesniak is a graduate student at Virginia Tech pursuing a Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering. She previously graduated from Virginia Tech with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry. Emma is interested in the development and cybersecurity of brain-computer interface devices and how technology can enhance human capabilities in the context of integrated wearable systems and human-machine teaming.
Riley Phillips
Riley Phillips is a graduate student at Virginia Tech University pursuing an M.A. in Political Science with a concentration in human rights. She previously graduated from Virginia Tech with a B.A. in International Studies and minors in Asian Studies, Sociology, and Chinese. Her academic interests are centered on the regulations governing cyber espionage and its implications for human rights.
Ryan Mason
Ryan is a graduate student at Virginia Tech pursuing a Master of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Business Analytics. He previously graduated from Virginia Tech with a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Management and Analytics. His academic interests lie in understanding the threat posed by ransomware to businesses, governments, and the global community, as well as its utilization as a tool for warfare and espionage by governments.
Ahissa Rice
Ahissa Rice is a Graduate Student at Virginia Tech University. Her research investigates the complex interplay between public policy, invasive spyware, and government surveillance practices in the digital age. By examining the legal and institutional frameworks that can enable or constrain the use of powerful surveillance technologies, Ahissa aims to contribute to the broader discourse on how democracies can navigate the challenges posed by digital surveillance while upholding the rule of law and protecting individual privacy rights.
Prior Tech4Humanity Lab Graduate Affiliates
Cameron Simmons
Cameron Simmons is a graduate of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. He received his bachelor’s degree in Business Information Technology with a concentration in cybersecurity management and data analytics. He is currently working on his Masters of Information Technology at Virginia Tech. He is currently working as a graduate research assistant at the Tech4Humanity lab studying Human-AI collaboration on OSINT Investigations for Social Media Disinformation and the role of artificial intelligence in healthcare.