Bahria University

Discovering Knowledge

Prof. Dr. Shabir Hussain

PhD Theme/Topic: Effects of Artificial Intelligence and digital technologies on Pakistani society, focusing on communication patterns, media consumption, and socio-cultural change

Supervisor: 1. Prof. Dr. Shabir Hussain, Senior Professor
Contact #: 03335096609
Email: shabir.buic@bahria.edu.pk 
Campus/School/Dept: BUIC/H&SS/MediaStudies
RAC Approved Supervisor for Research Areas: Political Communication, Peace and War Communication, Emerging Technologies
Supervisory Record:
PhD Produced: 5
PhD Enrolled: 3
MS/MPhil Produced: 40
MS/MPhil Enrolled: 4

Supervisor: 2. Dr. Farrukh Shahzad, Associate Professor
Contact #: 03335822223
Email: farrukh.buic@bahria.edu.pk 
Campus/School/Dept: BUIC/H&SS/Media Studies
RAC Approved Supervisor for Research Areas: Effects of Digital Media, Climate Communication
Supervisory Record: 
PhD Produced: 00 
PhD Enrolled: 01
MS/MPhil Produced: 20
MS/MPhil Enrolled: 03

Supervisor: 3. Dr. Mohsin Hassan Khan, Snr. Assistant Professor
Contact #: 03126419999
Email: mhkhan.buic@bahria.edu.pk
Campus/School/Dept: BUIC/H&SS/MediaStudies
RAC Approved Supervisor for Research Areas: Political Polarization, Islamophobia and Hate Speech, Social Media Analytics 
Supervisory Record:
PhD Produced: 2
PhD Enrolled: 03
MS/MPhil Produced: 10
MS/MPhil Enrolled: 5

Topic Brief Description: 

Effects of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technologies on Pakistani Society focus on examining how emerging AI-driven and digital communication technologies are reshaping patterns of communication, media consumption, and socio-cultural life in Pakistan. As algorithmic platforms, automated content systems, and data-driven media increasingly mediate everyday interactions, this theme invites doctoral research that explores their influence on information flows, social relations, cultural practices, and public discourse. The theme offers opportunities to investigate the societal implications of digital transformation within Pakistan’s distinct socio-political and cultural context, contributing to critical and policy-relevant insights in media and communication studies.

 Research Objectives:

  1. To examine how Artificial Intelligence and digital technologies are reshaping communication patterns and media consumption practices in Pakistani society.
  2. To analyse the socio-cultural transformations associated with AI-driven and platform-based media environments, including changes in social interaction, identity, and cultural norms.
  3. To assess the broader societal implications of AI-enabled communication technologies for public discourse, information access, and social cohesion in Pakistan.

Research Questions:

  1. How are Artificial Intelligence and digital technologies influencing communication practices and media consumption patterns in Pakistan?
  2. What socio-cultural changes are emerging as a result of increased reliance on AI-driven and digital media platforms?
  3. What implications do AI-mediated communication environments have for public discourse and social cohesion within Pakistani society?

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Candidate’s Eligibility Profile:

  • The applicant must have an MS/MPhil/Equivalent degree in Media and Communication Studies/Journalism with CGPA > 3.0.
  • Proficiency in spoken and written English is essential. We value independence and responsibility while promoting teamwork and collaboration among colleagues.