Qianxun Xu

Pronouns: she/her
Email: qianxunx@usc.edu
Advisor: Tara McPherson

Qianxun Xu is a Master’s student in Cinema and Media Studies at the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts. Prior to joining USC, she received a Master’s degree in Data Science from the School of Engineering at the University of Pennsylvania. Xu’s research interests lie in the intersection of technology—specifically artificial intelligence, machine learning, and generative AI—and the media landscape. Leveraging interdisciplinary methodologies, Xu explores the ethical, economic, and social ramifications of employing AI technologies in various aspects of media production, exhibition, distribution, and consumption. Her current research project examines computer programming languages’ ability to facilitate the development of multi-modal video games featuring non-binary characters and non-linear narratives.

Beyond her academic life, Xu is a video game streamer, adopting a virtual character graphic design and persona. Her comrade mini-schnauzer Conan, who has proven to be an angel in disguise, has helped her withstand countless instances of cosmic malevolence.