About Me.
Born and raised as a first-generation Latina in Silicon Valley, I traded the California sun for bonnie Scotland to pursue my undergraduate degree, and I’ve been working across the UK, North America, and South America ever since.
Driven by a deep curiosity about how people make decisions, adapt, and interact with the tools around them, I found my way to user research. It’s where I uncover the hidden frictions (and quiet delights) that shape everyday experiences. I’m a firm believer in “you don’t know what you don’t know,”a mindset that led me to pursue a PhD and continues to guide my research today.
I specialize in research at the intersection of hardware and software, helping companies build seamless, human-centered systems across complex ecosystems. From AI and automotive to personalization, I translate complexity into clarity, ensuring that technology doesn’t just work, but works for people.
The world is already complicated enough. Great UX should make it simpler.
Professional Background
I have a Master’s in User Experience and a PhD in Human-Computer Interaction, where my research explored how people interact with technology, and how those insights can be applied to in-car environments. I focused on personalization and onboarding, designing systems that enhance the user experience from first interaction to everyday use.
With over a decade of experience, I’ve worked across hardware and software in sectors ranging from automotive to emerging technologies. I specialize in bridging technical innovation with human insight, turning complex data into clear, actionable strategies.
From optimizing driver situational awareness to refining intelligent systems and onboarding flows, I focus on creating technology that feels intuitive, adaptive, and seamlessly integrated into people’s lives.
Mentorship
I’m passionate about mentoring early-career researchers, especially those transitioning from PhD to industry. Having made that leap myself, I know how tough it can be to translate academic expertise into real-world UX impact.
Where it began – Winning Best Researcher Talk for my early academic work
Where it's going – Sharing insights with a global audience at JLR HQ
Over the years, I’ve mentored both internally and externally, supporting:
✔ UX researchers & engineers: Helping refine methods, build confidence in stakeholder communication, and grow within cross-functional teams
✔ PhD graduates: Guiding them as they reframe academic strengths into UX strategy and industry-ready thinking
✔ Early-career UX researchers: Coaching them through portfolio development, interview prep, and career direction
Whether it’s a 1:1 session or long-term guidance, I aim to equip researchers with the clarity and confidence to thrive in this space.
If you're looking for support navigating your next step, book a mentorship session with me on ADPList, I’d love to help.
Beyond research
When I’m not deep in research, I’m probably on a quest for the best coffee beans in town, hiking with my rescue pup, Pixie, or planning my next trip. I love exploring new places, not just as a traveler, but as someone fascinated by how culture shapes the way we interact with the world around us
In 2023, I ran the NYC Marathon, a humbling (and slightly painful) reminder of endurance. These days, I prefer movement that’s a bit gentler: yoga, Pilates, or long walks that double as idea incubators.
In my downtime, I recharge with tarot readings or a good book, sometimes a deep dive into design and psychology, other times pure escape. I’m also known to experiment with new pescatarian-friendly recipes, ideally the kind that don’t take hours to prep.
I’m a strong believer in community and mentorship, and I’ve spent years supporting women in tech and helping early-career UX researchers grow. That work continues to be one of the most meaningful parts of my career.
And yes, I do watch reality TV sometimes. It’s all in the name of understanding human behavior... right?
Get in Touch
Have a question or want to collaborate? I’d love to connect!