Hi, I'm Pengfei!

I am Pengfei Zhao (pronounced PUNG-fay JOW), an assistant professor in communication & AI in the College of Communication and Information at Florida State University. I obtained my Ph.D. in Communication at Cornell University. 

My research focuses on how emerging communication technologies (e.g., AI and social media) shape social connection, interpersonal relationships, prosocial communities, and well-being, as well as the psychological and sociotechnical processes underlying these effects. I also develop theory-driven, evidence-based interventions to promote healthier, more prosocial, and more digitally literate engagement with emerging technologies.

My current research spans three key themes: 1) understanding how moral behaviors from humans and AI shape community norms and dynamics in digital spaces, 2) advancing human–AI interaction for supportive communication and prosocial behaviors, and 3) examining the longitudinal effects of human-AI interaction on interpersonal relationships and well-being. 

My work has been published in interdisciplinary peer-reviewed journals, including PNAS Nexus, Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, Current Opinion in Psychology, Computers in Human Behavior, Review of Education Research, and Journal of Adolescent Health. 

Methodologically, I primarily employ quantitative methods, including behavioral experiments in simulated environments and longitudinal panel surveys, to draw causal inferences for my research. I also integrate computational techniques, such as web programming, machine learning, and natural language processing, into my research as complementary approaches. 

I’m always excited to connect with thoughtful collaborators who share similar research interests. If anything here interests you, let’s get in touch!