Laboratory for Normative & Cultural Studies of Emerging Technologies

Most Recent Publication

Sun, Y., McOwen, B., Weichert, J., Eldariary, H., Kim, D., & Zhu, Q. (2026). Developing a typology of roles for STEM-trained professionals in AI policy engagement. Bulletin of Science, Technology & Society. Advance online: https://doi.org/10.1177/02704676251413497

This paper explores the roles of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) professionals in AI policymaking, addressing the urgent need for informed governance in emerging technologies. With AI’s complex sociotechnical impacts, STEM expertise is crucial for balancing benefits and mitigating risks like bias and privacy concerns. Despite their potential influence, the specific contributions of STEM professionals in AI policy remain underexplored. To address this gap, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 STEM professionals who have both educational and professional experience in STEM and policy, and have actively participated in AI policymaking. The data revealed two primary role groups: (1) advisors, gatekeepers, and influencers, who leverage their expertise in STEM and policy to guide stakeholders and actively influence policy decisions, and (2) facilitators and brokers, who facilitate connections and manage the flow of information between stakeholders. This typology highlights the varied contributions of STEM professionals to AI governance and policy development.

Who We Are

The Laboratory for Normative & Cultural Studies of Emerging Technologies (LANCSET) at Virginia Tech is an open and inclusive community of scholars committed to critically engaging with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and quantum computing through ethical, cultural, and societal lenses. Our work is grounded in the belief that technologies are not neutral; they are shaped by and, in turn, shape the values, norms, and cultures of the societies in which they are developed and deployed.

Normative Focus
We examine the ethical shaping and governance of technological development and deployment, investigating how responsibility, human flourishing, ethics literacy, and research security are enacted throughout the lifecycle of emerging technologies.

Cultural Focus
Our cultural lens explores the values already embedded in technological and professional education systems and the ways their adoption reshapes practices, identities, and meanings.

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