Zurich, Switzerland
I build evidence and tools to manage misinformation. I research how misinformation and AI-driven information ecosystems shape what people believe — and how ethical, evidence-based interventions can strengthen truth, trust, and public discourse. As Co-director of the ITE Lab (Information, Technology & Experimental Ethics) at the Institute of Biomedical Ethics and History of Medicine (IBME) at the University of Zurich, I work at the intersection of information science, technology, and ethics. My research focuses on misinformation, infodemic management, information literacy, social listening, and the ethics of emerging technologies. Through collaborations with international organizations, academic partners, and private companies, I translate research into practical solutions for crisis communication, education, and policy. Let’s connect: [email protected] | [email protected]
Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence: https://dsai.bogazici.edu.tr/en Teaching: AI & Information Ethics; Ethics & Governance of AI; Research: AI-generated disinformation, the influence of LLMs on the information ecosystem; emerging technology ethics
My primary areas of interest and expertise include infodemic management—particularly misinformation and disinformation—alongside emerging technologies and bioethics, with a focus on understanding how artificial intelligence shapes the information ecosystem. Through my work, I develop evidence-based strategies to manage information dynamics during times of crisis. With this focus, I am committed to contributing to efforts to better prepare for and respond to future global challenges, from public health to the resilience of democratic institutions.
Lab Webpage: https://www.ibme.uzh.ch/en/Biomedical-Ethics/Labs/Information,-Technology---Experimental-Ethics-Lab-(ITE).html Our research agenda addresses some of the most pressing issues of our time. We focus on two interconnected domains: 1. Infodemics and Mis/Disinformation We study the dynamics of misinformation and disinformation, particularly in the context of public health crises. Our projects investigate how false or misleading information spreads, how emotions and cognitive biases influence belief formation, and how critical thinking and information literacy can be strengthened. We also test innovative interventions, from educational strategies to AI-based tools, to counter the impact of infodemics and improve societal resilience. 2. Emerging Technologies and Information Ethics As artificial intelligence and other technologies reshape how information is produced, shared, and consumed, we study their ethical implications. This includes investigating bias in large language models, the governance of persuasive AI, and the responsibilities of institutions that deploy such technologies. Our goal is to anticipate risks, articulate ethical frameworks, and provide actionable recommendations for policymakers, educators, and the public.
The Applied Research and Impact Evaluation Lab examines how information, misinformation, and AI shape decisions, trust, and policy, using applied research and experimentation. We deliver independent monitoring and evaluation for humanitarian and development actors, supporting learning, accountability, and improved impact for policy, development and humanitarian actors and donors.
I coordinated the efforts of developers and analysts to create AI-social listening tools that help non-profit organizations identify emerging disinformation. I taught AI fundamentals and ethics for communications and external affairs for the World Bank, supporting their staff in navigating the complexities of responsible AI use. https://www.researchforpurpose.com/team/federico-germani/
I collaborate with Osmosia on science communication and educational activities, developing clear, evidence-based biomedical content. I also support the design and delivery of training initiatives, such as AI literacy for physicians, aimed at strengthening critical understanding and responsible use of digital tools in clinical contexts.
As an independent expert in science communication and ethics, I collaborate with a broad range of clients — including health organizations, pharmaceutical companies, medical writing agencies, magazines, and academic institutions — to enhance the effectiveness, clarity, and ethical grounding of their work. My activities span from writing papers, guidelines, and communication materials to advising on strategies for transparent and effective public engagement. I also provide ethical consultancy for the development of emerging technologies, with a particular focus on AI ethics and ethics-by-design. Through each collaboration, my goal is to translate complex scientific and ethical concepts into clear, evidence-based messages that promote trust and responsible innovation.