Meryl Ye

Hihi! I’m a second-year PhD student at Carnegie Mellon University in the School of Computer Science’s Software and Societal Systems Department, where I am supported by a Sansom Graduate Fellowship. I am advised by Steve Rathje and Bob Kraut.

I study how sociotechnical systems shape human judgment, autonomy, and wellbeing. My recent work examines how AI systems influence users’ attitudes and decision-making, more specifically how sycophantic AI systems can miscalibrate confidence and shape beliefs. I develop conceptual and empirical tools to define and mitigate these effects, contributing to broader questions in AI alignment.

I am also a research assistant with Data & Society’s AI on the Ground team. I study the affective use of AI systems—what benefits users experience and where risks of misaligned support emerge. I am interested in participatory design and governance approaches to strengthening AI safety in mental health and care contexts.

I graduated from Cornell University in 2023 with a B.S. in Computer Science. I am grateful to have worked with Malte Jung and Jon Kleinberg in my undergraduate research.

I’m always happy to connect with new people. Whether you’re curious about my work, thinking about grad school, or just want to talk ideas, feel free to send me an email!