Duane Varan is the CEO of MediaPet.ai, an AI video platform built on decades of media science research to help teams create high-impact ads with precise creative control and consistency. With a PhD in media, his early academic work included a landmark natural experiment studying the effects of television introduction on isolated communities. After years in academia, he went on to lead Disney’s innovation lab, laying the foundation for Media Science, which has since partnered with major TV networks and social media platforms. His pioneering work in neurometrics and emotion measurement transformed how advertising effectiveness is predicted. Dr. Varan has received numerous accolades, including the Australian Prime Minister’s Award for University Teacher of the Year and the ARF’s Erwin Efron Demystification Award.