S. Craig Watkins

S. Craig Watkins is the Ernest A. Sharpe Centennial Professor at the University of Texas at Austin and Executive Director of the IC² Institute. He holds dual affiliations in the School of Journalism and Media's Department of Radio-Television-Film. His work focuses on ethical AI systems, particularly addressing structural racism in computational models across healthcare, policing, and finance sectors.

• PhD in Digital Media from University of Michigan

Research interests include Health AI applications such as youth suicide prediction systems, postpartum depression chatbots, and digital biomarkers. Leads IC²'s Health AI initiative exploring social determinants of health and AI deployment in underserved communities. Advises Google/DeepMind, Fathom, and the American Psychological Association on AI ethics and youth mental health.

Collaborates with Dell Medical School and Texas Health Catalyst to develop equitable AI solutions in pediatric medicine and oncology. Author of six books including Hip Hop Matters and The Young and the Digital, analyzing technology's societal impacts.