GAPS Lab
GAPS Lab
Governance, Audits, and Platform Systems
We study gaps in algorithmic systems, governance, and accountability, developing tools and policy interventions to address them.
About
The GAPS Lab is an interdisciplinary research group focused on understanding and addressing the misalignment between how algorithmic systems are designed, deployed, and governed—and how they should be designed and governed to promote democratic values, protect civil liberties, and enable meaningful accountability.
Our work combines technical auditing, legal analysis, and HCI research to develop both empirical understanding and practical tools for improving platform governance and tech policy.
Research Areas
We work across several interconnected areas:
- Algorithmic auditing — Developing methods to audit and evaluate how platforms make consequential decisions about content, recommendations, and access.
- Platform governance — Analyzing how platforms make policy decisions and how those decisions affect users, researchers, and public discourse.
- Technology and democracy — Examining the relationship between platform design choices and democratic outcomes, including speech, political participation, and information ecosystems.
- AI and accountability — Developing tools and frameworks to enable meaningful accountability in AI systems and algorithmic decision-making.
Working With Us
We are recruiting graduate students, undergraduates, and master’s students who are interested in technology, governance, policy, and research at the intersection of these areas.
Who we work with
We primarily collaborate with Barnard College and Columbia University undergraduates and Columbia master’s students. We also welcome external researchers with their own funding or fellowship support.
Structure and timing
During the academic year, most students work with us for course credit (typically through independent study), though we may also have a limited number of paid research assistant positions depending on project needs and funding availability. Over the summer, positions are typically paid and full-time.
What we value
We are looking for students who are:
- Curious about the role of technology in society and governance
- Thoughtful about the broader implications of research
- Communicative and willing to engage iteratively
- Reliable and willing to commit sustained effort to projects
Prior research experience is not required—what matters is genuine interest, willingness to learn, and serious engagement.
How to Get Involved
If you are a Barnard or Columbia student interested in working with the lab, please reach out to XXX@barnard.edu with a brief message about yourself and your interests.
For more details on working with Emma and expectations around mentorship and feedback, see the FAQ.
Contact
For general inquiries about the lab, collaboration, or speaking requests, please contact XXX@barnard.edu.