User Experience Researcher

Join a leading organization at the forefront of technological innovation, where cutting-edge research shapes the future of human interaction with emerging technologies. This company is dedicated to understanding cultural shifts and human needs to create groundbreaking products and services that seamlessly integrate into daily life. As a valued partner, Aquent connects top talent like you with opportunities to make a significant impact.

Are you a visionary researcher passionate about uncovering the next big thing? We are seeking a dynamic and insightful individual to drive cultural and innovation research work streams. In this pivotal role, you will be instrumental in identifying the shifts and needs that will define future relationships between people and technology, directly influencing the innovation pipeline for future devices and services. Your work will not only uncover profound insights but also translate them into tangible experiences and strategic actions, shaping how millions interact with technology in the years to come.

**What You'll Do:**

* Analyze primary qualitative and quantitative research data to develop clear, compelling insights, actionable recommendations, and durable frameworks.
* Craft visually impactful and persuasive presentations using visual design programs or AI platforms to effectively communicate research findings.
* Socialize and activate research impact across the organization through engaging presentations, interactive workshops, working sessions, and creative artifacts like speculative concepts or design briefs.
* Collaborate closely with product and design partners to translate long-term insights and implications into near-term experiences and strategic actions.
* Partner with other researchers to leverage existing knowledge, identify opportunities, and extend the team's work into new research questions or topics for product-line roadmaps.

**Required Skills & Experience:**

* 7 years of experience in early, generative design research that informs long-term business strategy, ideally within the digital products and services industry.
* Proven ability to translate and creatively activate insights through design principles, strategic frameworks, scenarios, design provocations, and immersive workshops.
* Working knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research methods, with deep expertise in ethnographic, semiotic, co-design, and design research methods.
* Ability to travel internationally for in-context, in-person research (e.g., home, workplace, office) as needed.
* A portfolio demonstrating how your research has informed strategic decision-making, with a focus on innovation initiatives.
* Bachelor's degree in HCI, Design Research, or Social Sciences.

**Top Must-Haves:**

* Extensive experience in qualitative design research and creative research methodologies.
* Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, capable of conveying complex ideas clearly and persuasively.
* Strong design or visual skills for creating inspiring and novel presentations and storytelling.

**Preferred Qualifications:**

* Experience with devices, digital products, AI, Augmented Reality (AR), and Virtual Reality (VR).
* Excellent written communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate complex concepts across diverse audiences and organizational levels.
* Strong design acumen and comfort utilizing AI and other design tools to produce research outputs (e.g., presentations, trend reports) and activation materials (e.g., scenarios, design prompt cards).
* Experience with emerging technologies (e.g., AI, XR) and multimodal device interaction (e.g., touch, voice, and mediated control).

**What a Successful Background Looks Like:**
You have thrived in an applied environment, designing products in collaboration with engineering and business analysts, driving innovation, and launching new features.

**About Aquent Talent:**

Aquent Talent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world's biggest brands.
Our eligible talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match. We also offer free online training through Aquent Gymnasium. More information on our awesome benefits!
Aquent is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We're about creating an inclusive environment-one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their careers, and thrive.
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