Media Lab PhD student Valdemar Danry has been awarded the Google PhD Fellowship in Human-Computer Interaction for his research on how AI systems might amplify rather than erode human reasoning. 

As a researcher in the Fluid Interfaces group, Danry designs Socratic AI companions and wearable cognitive tools that help people think more critically, reason more clearly, and stay intellectually independent in an age of automation. His research not only creates new ways for AI to strengthen independent thought, but also investigates — through large-scale behavioral studies — how current AI systems can inadvertently weaken human judgment and decision-making. By combining insights from AI, cognitive science, and philosophy, and through collaborations with large AI organizations, Danry aims to shape a future where intelligent systems enhance the way we think and help us grow intellectually.

The Google PhD Fellowship in Human-Computer Interaction recognize outstanding graduate students who are conducting exceptional and innovative research in computer science and related fields, specifically focusing on candidates who seek to influence the future of technology. The program provides vital direct financial support for their PhD pursuits and connects each Fellow with a dedicated Google Research Mentor, reinforcing our commitment to nurturing the academic community.

Media Lab member company Google has offered these fellowships for more than a decade, and made them available to PhD students at universities around the world. Congratulations to all of this year's recipients!