Maximilian Jun Zhang

Maximilian Jun Zhang is a PhD student and Researcher at the Institute of Media Studies, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, working on the interdisciplinary project "The Answering Machine", funded by the Volkswagen Foundation. His research explores voice-based human-AI interaction in psychotherapy, AI ethics, and immersive media. He holds an M.A. in Film Studies from Freie Universität Berlin and a B.A. in Journalism and Communication Studies.

Education:

• Bachelor’s in Media Studies & German (Universität Tübingen)
• Bachelor’s in Journalism & Film Studies (Freie Universität Berlin)
• Master’s in Film Studies (Freie Universität Berlin)

Research Interests: Focuses on AI ethics, artificial voices in media, VR, neurofilmology, and gender studies. His work combines empirical research with artistic collaboration, such as improvisational theater performances with AI chatbots to study human-machine relationships.

Key Contributions: Awarded the 2023 AI in Film prize; presented at media conferences (e.g., GfM Jahrestagung 2023); active in public outreach via podcasts and science slams. Leads workshops on AI creativity and media analysis.