FTC announces new initiative aimed at tech research

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has announced its latest initiative in efforts to keep up with the constantly evolving technology space. Its new Office of Technology Research and Investigation (OTRI) will be rolled out by the Bureau of Consumer Protection and is aimed at producing research and conducting investigations into technology issues regarding various aspects of technology, including privacy, data security, connected cars, smart homes and more, according to a release by the agency. Kristin Cohen, chief of the bureau's Mobile Technology Unit, will be leading the OTRI. The agency is currently in search of qualified candidates to join the new enterprise. A Technology Policy Research Fellowship will be created and a full-time research coordinator position is currently open, according to a blog post by Chief Technologist Ashkan Soltani, touting the FTC's recruitment efforts.