Biography

Hello! I’m Lingwei and I’m currently a Post-doctoral researcher at University of Central Florida’s Center for Public and Non-profit Management. I finished my PhD in Public Policy and Management with a concentration in Machine Learning in August 2025 from Carnegie Mellon University. I was advised by Alex Chouldechova (Statistics/Public Policy), Rayid Ghani (ML/Public Policy) and Brian Kovak (Economics).

My research interests lie at the intersection of public policy and machine learning. I have helped develop, deploy and evaluate ML tools in policy areas such as workforce development, education, and housing in real-world settings with stakeholders. My work uses econometrics and machine learning to: (1) develop tools and ML methods to improve service delivery and address equity challenges in practice; (2) understand human incentives and behaviors in algorithm-assisted decision-making; (3) assess the social and economic impacts of algorithms, including bias audits and AI’s added value. I’m currently working on developing AI/data-driven alternatives to survey-based homelessness service prioritization tools, evaluating LLM-based chatbot’s efficacy in improving access to government/non-profit services, and developing AI tools for mitigating human trafficking with partners in Central Florida.

I’m passionate about my research and take part in civic tech because I believe researchers in public policy should actively engage community members and policymakers. This summer 2026, I’m grateful for the opportunity to join the AI Policy Summer School at Brown University and engage policymakers in DC.

When I’m not in my office, you can find me biking and experimenting with fusion cuisine at the beach now I’m in Florida :) Ask me about my three followers on GoodReads and playlists of 90’s Britpop (Blur > Oasis).