Susanna S. Lee

Susanna S. Lee, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mass Communication, Advertising and Public Relations. Her research examines the persuasive dynamics of social media in strategic marketing communication, with a particular focus on emerging technologies and advertising trends. She is interested in how influential communicators—such as social media influencers and virtual influencers—and persuasive strategies, including two-sided messaging, impartiality claims, and transparency signals, shape ad avoidance, brand authenticity, and message credibility. Additionally, her work examines the psychological effects of immersive media and artificial intelligence on consumer attitudes, behaviors, and well-being. Dr. Lee’s research has been published in leading journals in media psychology, advertising, and business, including Computers in Human Behavior, International Journal of Advertising, Journal of Advertising Research, Journal of Product & Brand Management, and Journal of Current Issues & Research in Advertising, among others.

Prior to joining BU, Dr. Lee was an Assistant Professor of Advertising at Temple University. She has taught courses such as Psychological Processes & Media Effects (at the doctoral level), Digital Media and Advertising, Media Planning, and Advertising Research.