About Me
Hello! I am a computer security and privacy researcher, and I study threats to users' safety, security, and privacy on technology platforms. Currently, my research focuses on addressing the safety threats posed by image generation models, namely AI-generated non-consensual intimate imagery. I also investigate problematic content served by algorithmic platforms, such as social media and online advertising platforms.
I am a Fritz Postdoctoral Fellow at Georgetown University, where I am fortunate to be advised by Professor Elissa Redmiles. I am also affiliated with the Massive Data Institute in the McCourt School of Public Policy. Previously, I was a postdoctoral researcher at Carnegie Mellon University CyLab, where I was advised by Professor Lujo Bauer. I graduated with a PhD in Computer Science & Engineering from the University of Washington, where I was advised by Professor Franzi Roesner, and I was part of the Security and Privacy Lab.
My work informs policymakers and technology platforms about emerging threats and risks to users. My findings have been covered by media outlets including Wired and The Indicator, and I have presented my work to industry and government, including at the U.S. Federal Trade Commission's PrivacyCon, the Ad Blocker Developer Summit, and USENIX Enigma. I was awarded the 2026 SOUPS Impact Award for my work investigating users' security and privacy with home IoT devices, and my work on problematic political advertising was a runner-up for Best Paper Award at IMC 2021.
I am currently on the job market! I am looking for tenure-track and faculty positions, industry research scientist positions in AI safety and security, and tech policy positions in safety, security, and privacy. If I might be a good fit for your organization, please reach out to me at eric.zeng@georgetown.edu.