# Network Contagion Research Institute (NCRI)

**Type:** Research Program  
**Affiliation:** Rutgers University  
**Focus:** Algorithmic narrative distribution, social media influence, information warfare

## Overview

Network Contagion Research Institute at Rutgers University conducts research on how algorithms shape narrative distribution and ideological adoption through social media platforms.

## Timeline

- **2025** — Published research finding TikTok's algorithm systematically delivered pro-Beijing narratives to younger American users, with content critical of the CCP constituting only 5% of results for searches related to Tibet, Uyghurs, and Tiananmen Square — significantly lower than comparable platforms

## Research Focus

- Algorithmic content curation and political bias
- Narrative amplification mechanisms
- Cross-platform comparative analysis of content distribution
- Geopolitical implications of algorithm control

## Significance

NCRI's TikTok research provided empirical evidence that influenced the 2025-2026 US policy response to TikTok, including Supreme Court rulings and forced divestment negotiations.