Biography

Dr. Liu's research focuses on cognitive psychology, decision-making, human-computer interaction, and intervention design. His work examines how cognitive, emotional, and contextual factors including stress, fatigue, and interface design influence internet users’ privacy-related decisions. He uses experimental methods, advanced statistical modeling, and user-centered design approaches to develop interventions that facilitate more informed decision-making, reduce stress, and improve users' experiences with technology. Outside of work, he enjoys playing tennis and soccer, staying active, and spending time with family.

Curriculum Vitae

CHAT Lab Website

Education

• Ph.D., Human Factors Psychology, Clemson University, 2026
• M.S., Applied Psychology (Human Factors Track), Clemson University, 2023
• B.A., Psychology, Clemson University, 2021

Expertise

• Decision-Making
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Usable Privacy

Recent Publications

• Liu, Y., Byrne, K.A., Aly, H., Knijnenburg, B.P. Examining Age Differences in the Effectiveness of Digital Privacy Education Interventions on Online Cookie Decisions. International Journal of Human Computer Interaction. (Impact factor: 3.4). https://doi.org/10.1080/10447318.2025.2532710

• Byrne, K.A., Pilcher, J.J., Liu, Y., Brancato, M., Spinelli., M., Rosinski, M., Alvarado Batres, A., & Daughenbaugh, D. A Computational Modeling Approach to Brief Slow-Paced Breathing and Moderators of Reward-Based Decision-Making in College Students. Acta Psychologica, 258, 105222. (Impact factor: 2.1). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actpsy.2025.105222

• Aly, H., Liu, Y., Khan, S., Ghaiumy Anaraky, R., Byrne, K.A., Knijnenburg, B.P. (2025). Digital Privacy Education: Customized Interventions for U.S. Older and Younger Adults in Rural and Urban Settings. Technology in Society, 102805. (Impact factor: 12.5). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.techsoc.2024.102805