Anthropologist turned UX Researcher

I started my career in research as a PhD student in Anthropology.  Throughout my years in academia, I taught hundreds of college students the basics of observing human behavior in Anthropology 103, worked on systems in archaeological labs and CRM repositories, and led my own archaeological excavation with a small team.  After leaving academia with my Masters, I transitioned into the applied research world, first at WeWork, then Ipsos NA, The Home Depot, Charles Schwab and now as a contractor building healthcare experiences on VA.gov.  

Strategic Vision Meets Hands-On Expertise

With a deep foundation in mixed-methods research, I specialize in creating comprehensive roadmaps that connect user insights with actionable strategies. Whether it’s conducting usability testing, facilitating workshops, or leading cross-functional teams through the intricacies of information architecture, I thrive on helping organizations unlock their potential by making sense of the messy and the complex.

For me, research isn’t just about collecting data—it’s about storytelling and strategy. I’ve refined a process that ensures every insight I uncover has a purpose, every decision I guide is grounded in evidence, and every stakeholder I engage feels empowered to act. From navigating politically charged environments to tackling ambiguous product problems, my approach is grounded in empathy, structure, and adaptability.

Proven Results Across Industries

I’ve led research initiatives for organizations like Ad Hoc, Charles Schwab, and The Home Depot, bringing immediate clarity and long-term strategy to high-impact projects. Some of my highlights include:

• Driving Product Alignment: At Charles Schwab, I conducted a comprehensive audit of mobile navigation strategies, providing stakeholders with three distinct pathways forward. My work informed key design decisions and ensured alignment across product, UX, and leadership teams.

• Elevating Research Maturity: At Ad Hoc, I introduced new methodologies, including unmoderated usability testing, to a team with low research maturity. My efforts improved research efficiency, informed product roadmaps, and increased stakeholder buy-in.

• Information Architecture Expertise: At The Home Depot, I designed and implemented a foundational taxonomy for their research repository, enhancing the search experience for UX teams, product managers, and stakeholders.

• Action-Oriented Insights: Whether it’s unmoderated usability testing, card sorting, or survey design, my research methodologies are tailored to quickly provide teams with actionable recommendations that solve real-world problems.

What Sets Me Apart

What I bring to every project is a combination of analytical precision and a people-first mindset. My academic background in anthropology shaped my ability to approach problems from a human-centered perspective, while my industry experience has sharpened my ability to navigate the technical and political challenges of product development.

I pride myself on being as much a mentor as I am a researcher. Whether I’m coaching new UX professionals or guiding teams through strategic workshops, I’m passionate about empowering others to embrace the value of UX research and design.

At my core, I love working on projects that make a difference. Whether you’re looking to improve your team’s research maturity, redesign a product to better meet user needs, or develop a clear and actionable strategy, I’d love to help you get there.

Let’s create something extraordinary—together.