About

Hi! My name is Xiang Lu (吕想). I am an Assistant Professor at the Urban Governance and Design Thrust, Society Hub, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou). Before joining HKUST(GZ), I was an Assistant Professor at Zhejiang University. I received my PhD in sociology from New York University (2021) and an LLB in sociology from Tsinghua University (2015).

I am broadly interested in AI and society, computational social science, migration, race and ethnicity, public opinion and attitudes, and media studies. My recent research focuses on algorithmic bias in human–AI interaction, the impacts of AI on interpersonal relationships and social interaction, agentic society, racial representation and nation-building discourse in media, and public attitudes toward international migration and their socio-psychological mechanisms.

To learn more about my research, download my CV here.

Contact: xianglu[at]hkust-gz.edu.cn

For Prospective PhD Students

I am continuously seeking motivated PhD students who are interested in the social impacts and ethical challenges of AI, or in leveraging AI and diverse forms of data to address social problems.

Applicants should hold (or be currently pursuing) a postgraduate or undergraduate degree in social sciences, data science, computer science, or a related field, and be proficient in at least one statistical programming language (Python, R, or Stata). Prior knowledge of AI techniques such as natural language processing, computer vision, machine learning, deep learning, or generative AI is highly desirable. Familiarity with survey data analysis, experimental methods in social science, or professional experience in the digital technology industries is also a plus. Candidates must meet the English proficiency requirements for admission to HKUST (GZ).

Please email your application to xianglu[at]hkust-gz.edu.cn with the subject line “PhD Application - Your Name - Your Institution”.

Required materials:

• CV
• Transcripts (undergraduate and above)
• A 1-2 page research statement that clearly articulates your research experience and interests
• 1-3 writing samples (in either English or Chinese)

For Prospective Research Assistants

I am continuously recruiting Research Assistants with experience or strong interest in the broad area of AI and society, including (but not limited to) computational social science, algorithmic bias, AI transparency, trustworthy AI, AI ethics, and affective computing. I work closely with my RAs to design, execute, and publish research projects through small-group workshops and one-on-one mentoring. To apply, please email me your CV and 1–3 representative works, with the subject line “RA Application - Your Name - Your Institution”.