Sanjana Gautam
Human-Centered AI Researcher

sanjana.gautam@utexas.edu
As a Bullard Research Fellow at the University of Texas at Austin’s iSchool, I explore the ethical and human-centered design of AI systems, with a particular focus on explainability, trust, and human-AI collaboration. My work integrates human-computer interaction (HCI), AI ethics, and behavioral science to advance AI systems that not only enhance human capabilities but also promote responsible and community-driven innovation.
My research aligns closely with the mission of Good Systems, where I examine the unintended consequences of AI deployment, ensuring that AI systems are designed for societal benefit while mitigating potential risks. In addition, I am also engaged with the Cosmic AI Institute, where I explore how trustworthy, interpretable AI methods can support scientific discovery in astronomy. I am particularly interested in AI’s role in broadening access to scientific knowledge through open-source tools, data sharing, and educational initiatives.
I bring a strong interdisciplinary background that blends machine learning, human-computer interaction, and human behavioural dynamics. I completed my PhD at Penn State’s College of Information Sciences and Technology under the supervision of Dr. Mary Beth Rosson. I was also an active member of the Innovation and Collaboration Lab(https://cil.ist.psu.edu/) led by Dr. Jack M. Carroll and Dr. Rosson. Currently, I am collaborating with Dr. Matthew Lease in my fellowship work.
News
May, 2025 | Thrilled to share my recent work with a talk at Cosmic Horizon Conference in Austin! I will be presenting my poster as well at the Cosmic Horizons Conference 2025 |
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Apr, 2025 | Attending Grand Challenges for the Convergence of Computational and Citizen Science Research in Washington DC. Looking forward to amazing discussions! |
Mar, 2025 | Excited for our work to presented at CHI 2025 in Japan! |
Feb, 2025 | Our work titled ‘Outcomes of faculty training aimed at improving how allegations of research misconduct are handled’ has been published in Accountability in Research. |
Nov, 2024 | I will be in Costa Rica, talking about my dissertation work on adaptive learning at CSCW 2024 🏝️ |