Dr. Jiawei Liu is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication Studies in the Ernestine M. Raclin School of the Arts at Indiana University South Bend. Her research program investigates how psychologically and biologically relevant factors embedded in media messages interact with individual differences and motivational states to shape affective and cognitive processing, with particular attention to contexts of health communication and behavior change. She is especially interested in the role of communication strategies in shaping health-related decision-making. Through a mixed-method research approach, Dr. Liu seeks to advance theoretical understanding and practical applications of message design in promoting public health outcomes, with a focus on substance use prevention, healthy eating, and the use of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence to improve health communication.
Dr. Liu regularly teaches courses including Introduction to Public Relations, Interpersonal Communication, Interpersonal Conflict, Public Speaking, and Speech Communication, with an emphasis on integrating theoretical foundations and practical communication skills. She values creating an inclusive classroom environment and is dedicated to supporting each student’s academic and personal growth.