Hey, I’m Tanni.
I am a computer scientist currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of Central Florida, specializing in Human-Computer Interaction, Social Computing, and Online Privacy. Currently, I work as a full-time Research Assistant at UCF under the guidance of Dr. Mary Jean Amon and Dr. Yan Solihin. My research focuses on Interdependent Privacy, examining how individual privacy is affected by others' actions on social media.
I hold a B.Sc. in Computer Science & Engineering from the University of Dhaka. I have previously served as a lecturer at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh and as a software engineer at iPay Systems Limited.
Education
2021-2026
Doctoral Student
University of Central Florida
My PhD thesis investigates interdependent privacy (IDP), a concept where individual privacy depends not only on their own sharing decisions but also on the decisions of others. A central component of my research is the Ethics of Care (EoC) framework, which informs interventions to promote online privacy. My research explores the development of practical interventions, including bottom-up psychological educational videos and peer comment strategies to promote IDP. A significant portion of my research also examines the representation of different races and genders in memes, investigating overrepresentation and biases. In summary, my thesis advances the understanding of IDP, develops EoC-informed interventions, and highlights racial and gender biases in memes, contributing to strategies for preserving online privacy and promoting equity on social media.
2013-2016
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
University of Dhaka
I completed my Bachelor of Science in Computer Science & Engineering from the University of Dhaka. During my studies, I was introduced to a comprehensive curriculum that encompassed both computer science and engineering principles. The dual focus of my studies allowed me to develop a deep understanding of software development, algorithms, and data structures, while also gaining practical insights into hardware systems, network engineering, and system design.
Research Methods
My interdisciplinary research spans Human-Computer Interaction, Social Computing, and Online Privacy. Using a mixed-methods approach, I investigate human-in-the-loop systems, focusing on social media interactions, human-AI interactions, and privacy dynamics in generative AI applications. My work examines how these interactions influence user behaviors, experiences, and sharing norms.
A significant part of my research aims to understand the psychological and social factors driving privacy violations and to develop psychosocial interventions to mitigate these risks. I utilize advanced data analytic tools, including statistical models, natural language processing, and qualitative thematic analysis, to capture the complexities of these systems.
My commitment to enhancing online safety and privacy through evidence-based interventions, informed by a deep understanding of user behaviors and the socio-technical environment, characterizes my research. This holistic approach addresses pressing issues in online privacy and contributes to the development of more secure and user-centric digital environments.
