Shaheen Kanthawala

Dr. Shaheen Kanthawala is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Journalism & Creative Media at the University of Alabama. Her research focuses on health communication technologies, platform governance, and the role of social media influencers. She examines how health-related technologies like apps and online communities affect self-management of health conditions, and investigates platform governance mechanisms and their societal impacts.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Journalism, Michigan State University (2019)
• M.A. in Journalism, Michigan State University (2015)
• M.A. in Mass Communication, Michigan State University (2012)
• B.Sc. in Mass Communication, University of Mumbai (2009)

Her research interests span health technologies (e.g., mHealth apps), media effects, social media dynamics, content creator ecosystems, and platform governance policies. Recent work explores algorithmic conspirituality on TikTok and the governance of misinformation on platforms like WhatsApp in India.

Teaching focuses include media effects, ethics in media, and emerging media technologies through courses like JCM 372 (Media Effects) and CIS 683 (Media and Technology).

Research Trends: Her articles analyze algorithmic influences on belief systems, crisis communication during pandemics, and digital divides in technology adoption among older adults. Work consistently bridges health communication with platform studies.

Awards: None explicitly listed.

Grants & Labs: No specific grants or labs mentioned in the text.