My name is Timilehin Durotoye, and I am a Ph.D. candidate in Mass Communications at the Pennsylvania State University, where my research explores the intersection of digital media technologies, artificial intelligence, politics, and digital journalism. Specifically, I examine how social media, algorithms, and AI influence human-social interaction, perception, democratic processes, and political behavior, as well as the spread and effects of misinformation in online news environments. At Penn State, I conduct research with the Democracy Research Unit (DRU) and the Media Effects Lab. 

My work has been published in leading journals and books, including Social Science Computer Review, Political Communication, Telematic & Informatics, and PLOS One. I have also presented my research at prominent conferences, including the International Communication Association (ICA), the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC), and the National Communication Association (NCA). 

I earned my bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the Department of Communication and Language Arts, University of Ibadan, Nigeria. Prior to my doctoral program at Penn State, I worked as an International Development Specialist with a unique blend of cross-sectoral experience in technology, education, community engagement, and digital development. My expertise involved designing and managing youth-centered projects,  leading digital product development, and coordinating stakeholder engagement. In my roles, I implemented multi-stakeholder program interventions to promote digitization and inclusion in education, youth leadership, digital & social entrepreneurship, and active citizenship across multiple African countries.

While I am not occupied with research or teaching, I enjoy watching SCI-FI movies, reading books, scrolling through Harvard Business Review, and chatting with friends and family 😊😄