Kristina Lerman's journey from a childhood in Kyiv, Ukraine, to a leading role in combating misinformation and polarization is a compelling narrative of resilience and innovation. Born in the Ukrainian capital, Lerman's early life was shaped by her Jewish-Ukrainian heritage and the rigid controls of the Soviet regime. In the late 1970s, her family seized the opportunity to emigrate to the U.S., settling in New York City. This transition during her formative years ingrained in her a deep understanding of socio-political dynamics, laying the groundwork for her future endeavors in computer science.

Today, Lerman is at the forefront of research at USC's Information Sciences Institute, focusing on the mechanics of social networks. Her work, inspired by the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing war in Ukraine, delves into the spread of misinformation and the formation of echo chambers. By analyzing social media data, Lerman aims to understand public sentiment, emotional reactions, and the moral foundations driving human responses. Her goal is to develop strategies to counteract misinformation and foster a more informed society.