MLMadel Leal
@madelleal
Experienced UX researcher specializing in user-centered design and strategic insights.
United StatesWhat I'm looking for
As a seasoned UX Researcher with over 4 years of experience, I specialize in conducting both qualitative and quantitative research to deliver actionable insights that drive product improvements and policy changes. My work has impacted numerous organizations, including non-profits and government agencies, where I've led research projects that have shaped product roadmaps and improved service delivery for underserved populations.
In my current role as a Freelance Consultant, I've successfully managed UX research strategies for 5+ non-profit clients, translating user insights into recommendations that inform policy changes and product development. Previously, at U.S. Digital Response, I designed and implemented workflows for language accessibility projects, increasing engagement by 100% and reducing customer support needs by 33%. My expertise includes usability testing, user interviews, and stakeholder reporting, ensuring that research findings are actionable and aligned with organizational goals.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
UX Researcher
Freelance Consultant
Jul 2024 - Present (1 year 1 month)
Lead UXR strategy and execution for 5+ non-profit clients, translating user insights into recommendations for improved service delivery. Conduct qualitative and quantitative research to inform policy change and shape product roadmaps.
UX Researcher
U.S. Digital Response
May 2023 - Mar 2024 (10 months)
Managed research projects focused on access to government services for underserved populations, impacting over 200k customers. Designed workflows for language accessibility projects, increasing engagement across government services by 100%.
Lead Research Strategist
Foster America
May 2022 - Apr 2023 (11 months)
Directed research projects to capture the lived experiences of families and inform the roadmap for improving child welfare services. Conducted user interviews and surveys to develop long-term strategies for youth foster care system restructuring.
Research Strategist
Unknown
Oct 2020 - May 2022 (1 year 7 months)
Led the development of equity-centered guides and tools, integrating human-centered design principles impacting 6000 employees. Managed qualitative research to identify gaps and design impactful solutions.
Product Manager
Office of Global Michigan
Oct 2019 - Jan 2020 (3 months)
Executed user-centered research to inform website redesigns and improve accessibility for refugees. Produced personas, wireframes, and user journey maps to streamline the application process for asylum seekers.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
UMUniversity of Michigan
Master of Science, Research and Data Analytics
M.S. in Research and Data Analytics, focusing on data-driven insights and analytics to inform policy and service improvements.
UMUniversity of Michigan
Master of Science, Social Work
M.S. in Social Work, emphasizing the integration of social work practices with research methodologies to improve community services.
UAUniversity of California, Los Angeles
Bachelor of Arts, Sociology
B.A. in Sociology, studying social behavior and structures, which informs user research and community engagement strategies.
Tech stack
Software and tools used professionally
Availability
Location
United StatesAuthorized to work in
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