Jessica Vitak, associate professor in the University of Maryland’s iSchool and affiliate professor in UMD’s Communication Department began her term as the new director of HCIL on August 30, 2021. Jessica has been part of the HCIL since joining the iSchool in 2012. Her research explores the privacy, surveillance, and ethical challenges raised by new technologies.

In the announcement to the HCIL, Jessica said: “I want to send a huge thank you to Niklas [Elmqvist] for all he’s done for HCIL these last five years. I’m excited to work with all of you to promote the amazing research being done at UMD, and look forward to seeing you and talking about ways to further improve the lab.”