Wentao Guo
Postdoc @ Tufts University
Tufts Security and Privacy Lab
Assistant professor @ University of Georgia
Hi! I am a postdoc at Tufts University, soon to be a professor in the School of Computing at the University of Georgia. As a human-centered researcher, I evaluate real-world challenges in computer security and privacy in order to design practical solutions. Much of my work focuses on the mental models, processes, and needs of practitioners such as software developers and scientists, who have disproportionate impacts on the security and privacy of ordinary users. I am excited about building partnerships outside of the research community to empower these practitioners directly.
I am also passionate about helping people reclaim agency over their attention and time, in a world where technological distractions are ubiquitous and digital connection is necessary. I have several projects in the works that will empower people—through both technological and old-fashioned approaches—to connect with their communities and live with intentionality.
Join the Security, Privacy, and Connection Lab at UGA!
I have funding to hire two PhD students to start at the University of Georgia in Fall of 2027. I am looking for students with strong writing skills, solid fundamentals in programming and computational thinking, an interest in engaging with nuance, and the motivation to do good for people and society. I welcome students with interdisciplinary, industry, and/or military backgrounds. Before applying, please email me at [email protected] with your CV or résumé and a couple sentences about your research interests.
Here are some research directions I am excited about:
- Developing an incident response center and other sociotechnical infrastructure to combat online scams.
- Helping social, behavioral, and health scientists address privacy when publishing research data.
- Exploring innovative ways to support intentional, non-addictive usage of personal technology (e.g., dumbphones, Luddite Clubs).
- Evaluating outcomes of cybersecurity professional programs.
Recent Publications
* indicates mentored undergraduate student