What are your research interests?
My research interestsinclude the role of artificialintelligence (AI) in journalism, itsimpact on the news reportingprocess and its potential repercussions for news outlets in the broaderperspective of ourmoderndemocracies.
How did you become interested in your field of research?
My academic journey started coincidentally in 2018 when I finished my master’s in international politics and media and was simultaneously working as a journalist for the Belgian newspaper De Morgen. The initial idea of pursuing a PhD became more prominent when I was confronted with a relatively new development redefining journalistic practice: the increasing ‘datafication’ of newsrooms. More specifically, I was fascinated by how emerging technologies like recommender systems and audience metrics tools seemingly automated daily decisions in newsrooms. My experience from the news industry laid the groundwork for what would become my research line in my PhD and beyond: exploring the complex ways in which news workers perceive and engage with emerging technologies.
What research question would you above all like to find the answer to? And why is that?
To what extent people interact and trust (emerging) technologies. Oftentimes, technologies are taken for granted. They become part of the woodwork of our lives, but this taken-for-grantedness is rarely questioned.
Which impact do you expect the Talent Track will have on your career and on your research field in general?
Someday, I hope to be able to chair my own research centre. I hope the talent track will contribute to my career in ways that are crucial to become a research centre director, and a PI. I hope I will be able to connect with and learn from others.
Which impact do you expect your research to have on the surrounding society?
Bridging science and practice is at the heart of my research. Being the first in my family to earn a master's and PhD, I am committed to making knowledge accessible to a broader audience. My background in journalism has equipped me to translate scientific insights into presentations and media engagements.
