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Mary Tucker

@marytucker

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Experienced user researcher with a strong background in data analysis.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role that fosters innovation, values user-centered design, and offers opportunities for professional growth.

I am a seasoned user researcher with over 8 years of experience leading qualitative and quantitative research across various sectors, including Enterprise IT, EdTech, and academia. My journey has been marked by significant achievements, such as establishing the first-ever UX research practice at Barracuda Networks, where I earned the company’s 'Drive Innovation' award in my first year. My PhD in psychology equips me with a robust understanding of research methodologies, enabling me to drive impactful changes in product development and user experience.

Throughout my career, I have successfully guided the creation of comprehensive design systems and implemented rigorous research practices that have significantly improved user engagement and satisfaction. My work at CourseKata involved analyzing data from over 1,000 students, leading to hundreds of enhancements in educational materials. I am passionate about leveraging data to inform design decisions and enhance user experiences, and I thrive in environments that challenge me to innovate and grow.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Senior User Researcher

Current

Barracuda Networks

Apr 2022 - Present (3 years 2 months)

Led the establishment of the first UX Research practice at Barracuda Networks, significantly improving research velocity and product development cycles. Implemented a company-wide design system and conducted extensive user research to enhance IT Admin user journeys, resulting in cost savings and improved customer satisfaction.

UX Research User Testing Design Systems Data Analysis UserZoom Vendor Relations Research Operations Agile Methodologies

Graduate Researcher

UCLA Teaching and Learning Lab

Jul 2017 - Apr 2022 (4 years 9 months)

Managed a multi-year dissertation project while mentoring undergraduate researchers. Applied advanced statistical techniques to analyze data and presented findings in various formats, contributing to numerous peer-reviewed publications.

Statistical Analysis Research Methodology Mentorship Presentation Skills Project Management Qualitative Research

Researcher

CourseKata

Jul 2017 - Apr 2022 (4 years 9 months)

Conducted user research to grow platform adoption and improve educational materials. Analyzed data from students to inform course enhancements and led experiments to test teaching methods, with findings published in a top educational journal.

User Research Data Analysis Research In Education Survey Design User Engagement Team Leadership Experiment Design Statistical Analysis

Director of Teacher Happiness

Sokikom

Jul 2014 - Sep 2015 (1 year 2 months)

Led research initiatives to launch educational features and secured funding through a proposal based on research findings. Conducted generative research to inform product development, achieving a high district renewal rate.

User Research Stakeholder Engagement Usability Testing Qualitative Research Data Analysis Research Strategy

Research Assistant

Rubin Memory Lab, Duke University

May 2009 - Jun 2010 (1 year 1 month)

Conducted interviews and analyzed data for cognitive neuroscience studies. Led an individual research project, employing thematic analysis to derive insights from extensive interview responses.

Qualitative Research Data Collection Interviewing Neuroscience Research Design Data Analysis Research Project Management Statistical Techniques

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

University of California, Los Angeles

Ph.D., Developmental Psychology

2018 - 2022

Completed a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology with a focus on quantitative psychology. Conducted extensive research and analysis in the field, contributing to multiple peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

University of California, Los Angeles

M.A., Psychology

2016 - 2018

Earned a Master of Arts in Psychology, focusing on advanced research methods and statistical analysis. Engaged in various research projects that contributed to the understanding of psychological processes.

Duke University

B.A., Psychology

2006 - 2010

Obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, laying the foundation for a career in research and education. Participated in various academic and extracurricular activities that enhanced understanding of psychological principles.