Human-focused experience researcher
studying interaction-based technologies.
I’m Rachel,
the results-driven UX Researcher with 6+ years of experience turning user insights into design improvements that enhance usability and customer satisfaction. I have the proven ability to deliver strategic recommendations that align with business goals and drive measurable results. Notably, I pioneered accessibility research at the University of Iowa, enabling the first man to run a half marathon without a human guide. I’m passionate about delivering human-centered solutions and fostering collaboration across teams.
CORE SKILLS
User Research
Interviews, usability testing, and behavioral analysis
Accessibility
Designing inclusive digital experiences
Strategic Roadmapping
Data-driven insights to inform product direction
Collaboration
Cross-functional teamwork and workshop facilitation
Mentorship
Team development and professional growth guide
Storytelling
Presenting findings through compelling narratives and visuals
TOP ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Pioneered Research Transforming Accessibility
Invented inclusive exercise solutions, now utilized by the Google Accessibility Team; laid the groundwork for the first-ever human-guide-free half marathon, marking a milestone in assistive technology.
Built a Scalable Behavioral Tracking System
Established a robust, multi-site behavioral tracking system across 12+ applications, optimizing user insights for strategic growth.
Designed a Cost-Saving App with Measurable Impact
Created an innovative pricing app that saved a major grocery chain $2.7 million annually by reducing labor costs and streamlining workflows.
Engineered an Efficient Wayfinding System
Developed an in-store product wayfinding solution, cutting customers’ shopping time by 18%, enhancing user experience, and driving store loyalty.
Conducted Extensive User Research
Led hundreds of remote and in-person interviews to gather actionable insights, supporting user-driven improvements across product lines.
Streamlined an Insurance Quoting Process
Reduced quoting time for insurance agents by over 4 minutes per transaction, significantly boosting efficiency and enabling higher revenue potential.
Facilitated over 75 Usability Studies
Delivered over 75 high-impact usability studies, yielding critical insights that shaped product enhancements and optimized user satisfaction.
Created a Comprehensive UX Playbook
Authored a company-wide UX playbook, standardizing design processes and promoting a unified approach to user-centered practices.
Testimonials
Ryan Young | Director of Product Design at P3 + Uplift
“Rachel is a model example of what anyone should want in a UX researcher and teammate. She is skilled at both qualitative and quantitative activities. But more importantly, she understands how to select the right research tool for the question at hand.
Rachel likes to dig in and understand the hard stuff because she knows it will benefit the research and guide future decision-making. She isn't afraid of untangling complexity, and she doesn't shy away from being respectfully direct with her peers when change is needed.
By in large, Rachel is boldly curious, driven, and selfless. She would be a valuable addition to any organization that seriously prioritizes its UX department.”
Danny Vasquez | UX Designer at Hy-Vee, Inc.