Deb Roy

Deb Roy is a Professor of Media Arts and Sciences at MIT, directing the MIT Center for Constructive Communication (CCC). He co-founded and leads Cortico, a nonprofit developing dialogue platforms to amplify underheard voices. His research focuses on AI-driven systems for civic engagement, dialogue design, and mitigating misinformation. Previously, he served as Executive Director of the MIT Media Lab, CEO of Bluefin Labs (acquired by Twitter), and Twitter’s Chief Media Scientist.

Education: B.A.Sc. in Engineering from the University of Waterloo, Ph.D. in Media Arts and Sciences from MIT.

Research interests include human-AI collaboration, social media ecosystems, and tools for constructive communication. His work bridges technical innovation with societal impact, addressing issues like polarization, misinformation, and equitable dialogue.

Key contributions include groundbreaking studies on misinformation dynamics (Science 2018 cover story) and frameworks for conversation networks. His TED Talks on language development and democratic dialogue have reached global audiences.

Awards include recognition for his 2018 Science publication as one of the most influential academic works of the year.

Labs/Teams: Directs CCC and collaborates with Cortico. Previously led MIT Media Lab initiatives and advised Harvard Law School and Aspen Institute commissions.

Grants and funding support his work on civic technology and social systems redesign.