Danniell Hu | Computer Science PhD Student @ UMich

Hi! My name is Danniell, but I usually go by Danni.

I’m a second year PhD student in Computer Science at the University of Michigan, where I have the pleasure of working with Professor Elizabeth Bondi-Kelly in the Realize Lab and Professor Westley Weimer in the Weimer Research Group.

My research is in AI for Social Impact (AISI). I study how we can design human-centered AI systems to address pressing societal challenges. My work sits at the intersection of artificial intelligence, software engineering, and psychology, with a focus on participatory-driven approaches. I'm particularly interested in medical contexts such as women's reproductive health.
Why is this important? AI technologies are increasingly deployed in areas such as healthcare, conservation, and social services, which are domains where decisions directly affect people's lives. However, many AI systems fail because they are misaligned with the needs, values, and priorities of the communities they are meant to serve. Without intentional design practices, we risk building tools that reinforce inequities, waste resources, and cause harm.

Previously, I was an R&D Embedded Software Engineer at Stryker, where I developed PCBs for hospital bed ecosystems and medical monitoring technologies. I primarily worked in the medical division.

Outside of research, I enjoy making music—both by playing violin in the University of Michigan’s Campus Symphony Orchestra and composing in FL Studio. I also love crocheting, cooking, and playing video games.


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