User Experience Researcher

Role Overview

Senior Design Researcher focused on Innovation & Emerging Technologies. You’ll lead research that explores how culture, human behavior, and emerging technologies shape future products and services, turning insights into stories that influence product and business strategy.

Location & Employment

• Remote/Hybrid with some international travel required
• Contract (leave coverage)
• Hourly rate: $80/hr

Responsibilities

• Lead qualitative and generative research on emerging technologies, cultural shifts, and evolving customer needs
• Synthesize research findings into actionable insights, frameworks, and strategic recommendations
• Produce visually compelling deliverables (presentations, reports, storytelling artifacts) using Figma and AI-powered tools
• Facilitate workshops and collaborate with product, design, and research teams
• Conduct in-person and remote research, including ethnographic and contextual field studies
• Convert long-term insights into near-term product opportunities and innovation roadmaps

Required Qualifications

• 7+ years experience in Design Research, Innovation Research, Strategic Foresight, or related areas
• Strong qualitative research expertise: ethnography, co-design, semiotics, generative research
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation communication skills
• Proven ability to create polished, visually engaging research deliverables and executive presentations
• Demonstrated ability to influence product strategy with research-driven insights
• Bachelor’s degree in HCI, Design Research, Social Sciences, or related field

Preferred Qualifications

• Research experience with AI, XR, AR/VR, connected devices, or digital products
• Knowledge of future methodologies, trend forecasting, and emerging technology research
• Experience partnering closely with design, engineering, and business stakeholders
• Strong proficiency in Figma, AI tools, and visual storytelling

Compensation & Benefits

• $80/hr contract rate
• Benefits available for contract/temporary professionals (medical, vision, dental, life, disability) and access to a 401(k) plan.