Shiva Darian

Dr. Shiva Darian is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science at New Mexico State University (NMSU). She holds a Ph.D. in Information Science from the University of Colorado at Boulder (2024) and dual bachelor's degrees in Philosophy and International Politics from Pennsylvania State University. Her research focuses on the intersection of human-centered computing, data politics, and migration-related sociotechnical systems. She leads the Data Advocacy Research (DAR) Lab, emphasizing qualitative methods like ethnography and diary studies to examine data use in advocacy organizations and migrant communities.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Information Science, University of Colorado at Boulder (2024)
• M.S. in Information Science, University of Colorado at Boulder
• B.A. in Philosophy and International Politics, Pennsylvania State University

Research Interests: Dr. Darian investigates how organizations and communities engage with data in politicized contexts, particularly in advocacy work and migration. Her work explores topics like data siloing as infrastructural activism, algorithmic folk theories, and the sociotechnical experiences of migrants. She employs methods such as ethnographic fieldwork, interviews, and research through design to address these issues.

Recent Research Trends: Her publications focus on data infrastructure activism, advocacy data rhetoric, and accountable software practices. She emphasizes intersectional approaches, integrating feminist theory and equity-oriented frameworks into data work.

Awards & Recognition:

• 2023 Excellence in Teaching Award, CU Boulder
• CU Boulder Dissertation Completion Fellowship (2023)
• Marcella Hertzog Scholarship, College of CMCI (2023)

Advising & Collaborations: Currently advising PhD, MS, and undergraduate students in data advocacy research. Previously served as a Research Assistant Professor with CAHSI at UTEP. Active in cross-institutional collaborations, including work with the Computing Alliance of Hispanic-Serving Institutions.

Labs & Teams: Directs the DAR Lab, which focuses on advocacy data work and migration-related ICT challenges. The lab prioritizes qualitative research methods and collaborates with Spanish-speaking students and community stakeholders.