Understanding The Mental Health Care Needs Of People Who Do Shift Work

Employer: University of Washington, IxD Department

I'm Robyn, a multidisciplinary design researcher with over three years of experience leading research initiatives that challenge assumptions, support diverse learning goals, and drive impact.
I delight in cross-functional collaboration and have a knack for crystalizing research findings into thoughtfully packaged insights that resonate with a range of audiences. I'm eager to dig my hands into new research areas, so don't hesitate to get in touch if you're interested in collaborating.

Work Projects

Creating a Privacy-Enhancing Smart Camera System that Empowers Underserved Users

Employer: University of Washington, IxD Department

Current smart home devices prioritize the needs of a primary user/owner. Yet these devices inevitably impact the privacy of people nearby, such as family, friends, neighbors, and domestic workers. These vulnerable and underserved adjacent users interact with smart home devices with relatively little or no direct awareness, consent, access, or benefits. This project responds to this pressing problem through an in-depth research and design inquiry.

Challenging Long Held Design Assumptions with Concept Testing

Employer: Big Health

What happens when research findings challenge long held design assumptions? For years, Big Health developed product enrollment campaigns featuring bespoke illustration, but when enrollment dropped and troubling user feedback emerged, I went looking for answers. This project reveals how concept testing can enable designers to approach old challenges in new ways.

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Understanding the Mental Health Needs of People Who Do Shift Work

Employer: Big Health

This case study is currently under construction. If this project has peaked your interest and you'd like to learn more, send me an email
and let's find time to connect!

School Projects

Overcoming Barriers to Dog Adoption Through Research and Design

MHCI+D, University of Washington

The internet has transformed the pet adoption industry.

Yet the adoption process remains mystifyingly difficult and resource-intensive. This case study explores the barriers stakeholders encounter along their adoption journey, and includes recommendations for how designers can improve the process for dog seekers and rescues alike.

Helping PhD Students Manage Procrastination with Mood Tracking

MHCI+D, University of Washington

Many PhD students conduct some form of self-directed work in which they are responsible for defining, scoping, and managing projects with limited oversight. Given the nature of self-directed work, we set out to understand how PhD students stay productive and meet their goals in the absence of traditional manager-based supervision.