Research Lead

At HUGE, we have always believed in the value that user research brings to developing sound business and experience strategies and, ultimately, to finding the best design solutions.  We bake research into our discovery and design process so that every project is guided by what actual users need and want (that’s why we have 2 in-house usability testing labs!).  We are looking for a full-time Research Lead who brings the same level of passion and dedication to research.
 
Research Leads work across multiple projects collaborating with designers and strategists to develop test plans, conduct research, synthesize findings, and create actionable outputs.  They also oversee a research team: mentoring usability analysts, delegating responsibilities, and ensuring the quality of their deliverables.  
 

Responsibilities:
  • Conduct, moderate, and oversee user research across various projects
  • Collaborate with Designers and Strategists to set research goals and ensure quality research outputs and best-in-class designs
  • Oversee and mentor usability analysts
  • Analyze research data and synthesize into actionable briefs
  • Present research findings to internal team and/or clients
  • Attend, participate in, and present work at conferences
  • Work with Engagement Directors and Project Managers to quote, scope and plan research activities for new and existing engagements
  • Evangelize the value of user research internally and to potential clients
  • Develop and share archive of research methodologies and cross-project learning  
  • Partner with research teams on the client side
  • Define, lead, and publish internal research projects

Requirements:
  • 5+ years hands-on experience with user research, agency experience a plus
  • Passion for research and an entrepreneurial spirit, desire to grow and shape the research group  
  • Experience with various research methodologies and tools and a keen understanding of when to use which
  • Familiarity with Morae and/or other usability testing software
  • Fluency with usability heuristics and relevant HCI literature  
  • Ability to adjust research tasks based on timing (comfortable with guerilla testing and quick turnarounds)
  • Experience managing, growing, and mentoring junior researchers
  • Strong writing, editing, and oral communication skills
  • Proven ability to multi-task  
  • Expert moderation skills
  • UX design experience is a bonus
  • Proactive, hands-on person who loves a challenge
 
 HUGE is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We strongly support diversity in the workforce.