top of page

Research Philosophy

With over 10 years of experience spanning highly-controlled cognitive neuroscience research, remote customer interviews, and discovery and generative research on complex enterprise systems, I bring both scientific rigor and strategic perspective to UX research. My background enables me to navigate ambiguity, scale insights across contexts, and connect human behavior to business outcomes.

​

I view research as a strategic, collaborative function, not simply a validation step. As a researcher, I partner closely with product, design, engineering, and business leadership to shape problem framing, influence roadmaps, and ensure user insights meaningfully inform decision-making. I cultivate shared ownership of research by involving stakeholders throughout the lifecycle while upholding methodological rigor, ethics, and integrity.

​

Research is inherently iterative. I focus not only on executing individual studies, but on strengthening research practice over time by refining processes, identifying patterns across initiatives, and building institutional knowledge. My role is to identify meaningful problems, ask the right questions, and translate insights into clear, actionable recommendations that improve user experiences and drive measurable business outcomes.

​

I also recognize that stakeholders are the end users of research. Insights only create impact when they are understood and applied. I prioritize clear storytelling, structured synthesis, and compelling deliverables that make complex findings accessible and memorable. I encourage dialogue and feedback to ensure research continues to evolve alongside team and organizational needs.

​

Finally, research depends on participants. I am experienced working with individuals from diverse backgrounds across the lifespan, including e-commerce customers and employees navigating enterprise systems. I create inclusive, safe research environments that foster trust where participants feel informed, respected, and empowered to share authentically.

ChatGPT Image Mar 2, 2026, 08_20_15 PM_edited.jpg

Education

2022

PhD, Cognitive Psychology

The Pennsylvania State University

Dissertation: Prediction is Production? Exploring the Relationship Between Language Prediction and Production in Younger and Older Adults

Advisor: Dr. Michele Diaz

2018

M.S., Cognitive Psychology

The Pennsylvania State University

Thesis: Graph Theoretical Network Analysis to Examine Resting State Functional Connectivity in Younger and Older Adults and its Relationship with Behavior
 
Advisor: Dr. Michele Diaz

2016

B.S., Integrative Neuroscience

Binghamton University

Minor in Anthropology
Phi Beta Kappa, Psi Chi

Hobbies & Interests

​I love traveling and exploring new places. Some of my favorite trips include Alaska, Iceland, and France; and a dream of mine is to visit all the National Parks (11 down!).

My other hobbies include hiking, skiing, crocheting, ceramics, and reading. 

 

©2035 by Daniel Tenant. Powered and secured by Wix

bottom of page