Renee Diresta

Renée DiResta is a distinguished professor and writer renowned for her expertise in combating misinformation and disinformation in the digital age. Her professional journey began with a solid educational foundation in Computer Science and Political Science from Stony Brook University, where she also gained valuable experience as an intern with the CIA. This unique blend of technical and political knowledge has propelled her career in research and advocacy.

As a co-founder of Vaccinate California, DiResta played a pivotal role in promoting vaccination awareness in the state. Her research into vaccination misinformation, particularly following a measles outbreak, led to significant findings that demonstrated how a small percentage of users were responsible for a large volume of anti-vaccine content on social media. This research not only informed public policy but also contributed to the successful passage of California Senate Bill 277, which aimed to strengthen vaccination requirements.

During her tenure at the Stanford Internet Observatory, DiResta led critical investigations into the influence of foreign entities on U.S. politics, particularly the Russian Internet Research Agency’s efforts during the 2016 Presidential Election. Her comprehensive reports to the U.S. Senate highlighted the manipulation of social media platforms and the resulting impact on political discourse, underscoring her commitment to safeguarding democratic processes.

In addition to her research, DiResta has made significant contributions to public discourse through her media appearances and writings, including her 2024 book, “Invisible Rulers.” Her advocacy for improved social media practices and user education continues to resonate, positioning her as a leading voice in the fight against misinformation.