AI Principles & Ethics Fellow
Dennis has worked on a wide range of internet policy issues, including safeguarding the integrity of political elections and fighting misinformation and disinformation. He was a recent Artificial Intelligence Principles & Ethics Fellow at Google and a Google.org Fellow.
Who or what motivates your work at HMS?
My work at HMS is continually motivated by my deep curiosity for how advancements in technology and science can be tapped to improve people’s wellbeing, especially in mental and cognitive health, and the collective power and ability of bright, compassionate, purpose-driven colleagues to work toward healing and improving humanity. My peers and professors continually amaze me with their intellect and infectious energy (pun intended) to transform that into world-changing ideas.
What was your path to your current role?
Just prior to the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, I was selected for Google’s inaugural Artificial Intelligence Principles & Ethics Fellowship, an internal committee of policymakers, ethicists, and product/engineering leaders tasked with reviewing and advising on AI-related projects to ensure their ethical soundness and aim to benefit society. During this time, I was also finishing up my final semester of a post-baccalaureate pre-medical program with the hope of accomplishing an adolescent dream of becoming a physician. Through these impactful experiences, I decided to pursue the Master of Science in Bioethics program, focusing on research at the intersection of AI and ethical decision-making with the objective of improving outcomes in health and mental wellbeing.
Who is the most influential person in your life?
Definitely my son, Liam. I’ve always wanted to be a father and that wish came true 12 years ago when my son was born. Since then, my outlook on life and purpose has been guided by a sense of responsibility to leave the world a better place for my son and future generations. Liam has not only been my biggest source of inspiration, but he’s also my greatest teacher.