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Zahra Ofoghi

@zahraofoghi

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Ph.D. neuroscientist specializing in user-centered design and VR research.

Canada

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What I'm looking for

I seek a collaborative environment that values innovation and offers opportunities for growth in user experience and research.

I am a dedicated research scientist with over three years of experience in designing user-centered experiences and conducting usability testing. My academic background includes a Ph.D. in Neuroscience and a Master’s and Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology, equipping me with a robust understanding of cognitive science and human-computer interaction. I am passionate about advancing the field of virtual reality, particularly in clinical applications, where I lead innovative projects that integrate biosensors and VR technology.

Throughout my career, I have successfully managed multidisciplinary teams, collaborated with prestigious institutions like Boston Children’s Hospital, and contributed to significant research initiatives. My work has led to the development of interactive learning packages for children and the design of a digital pain education platform. I thrive in environments that foster collaboration and creativity, and I am committed to leveraging my expertise to create impactful solutions that enhance user experiences.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Mind Nest Childcare Manager

Current

Licensed Family Childcare

May 2024 - Present (1 year 2 months)

Founded and received a licence for a home-based childcare centre. Designed two prototype learning packages for young children, integrating playful, age-appropriate 3D toys, books, audio, and songs to support early learning and engagement.

Childcare Curriculum Development Early Childhood Education Prototypes entrepreneurship

Current

Research Scientist

Current

Simon Fraser University

Oct 2024 - Present (9 months)

Designing virtual reality usability tests for the clinical population. Leading a collaborative study with Boston Children's Hospital on the VR effect.

Virtual Reality Usability Testing Clinical Research Biosensors Team Management

Research Manager

University of British Columbia

May 2023 - Jul 2024 (1 year 2 months)

Led research projects, supervised researchers, students, and assistants. Standardized research protocol, data management platform, and data backup systems.

Research Management Data Management

Co-founder and Product Liaison

ReGathering.ca

Jan 2020 - Dec 2021 (1 year 11 months)

Designed and launched the MVP of a social APP for newcomers to Canada. Created a team of 10 designers, user-experience researchers, and developers.

Product Design Market Research User Experience Stakeholder Management

Mitacs Elevate Postdoctoral Fellow

Simon Fraser University

Aug 2020 - May 2023 (2 years 9 months)

Initiated a novel research direction at the intersection of neuroscience, virtual reality (VR), and design, advancing understanding of user interactions with VR. Led the design and execution of a mixed-methods study exploring the impact of avatar presence in VR.

Neuroscience Virtual Reality Mixed Methods Research Machine Learning

Researcher and Ph.D. Applicant

University of Calgary/Alberta Children's Hospital

Jan 2015 - Dec 2020 (5 years 11 months)

Conducted over 100 neuroimaging scans, interviews, and behavioural tests as part of a cohort clinical study. Performed preprocessing and higher-level analyses of functional MRI signal.

Neuroimaging Clinical Research Data Analysis FMRI Research Collaboration

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

University of Calgary

Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Neuroscience

Completed a Ph.D. in Neuroscience, focusing on advanced research within the field. This program provided a deep understanding of neurological processes and research methodologies.

University of Tehran

Master ’s and Bachelor ’s in Clinical Psychology, Clinical Psychology

Obtained both Master's and Bachelor's degrees in Clinical Psychology. This comprehensive study covered various aspects of psychology, preparing for clinical and research roles.

The Michener Institute and Vector Institute

Certificate, AI for Clinician Champions

Completed the AI for Clinician Champions Certificate Program online. This program focused on integrating AI concepts and applications relevant to clinical practice.

Beedie School of Business and Mitacs, Simon Fraser University

Certificate, Invention 2 Innovation (i2I)

Participated in the Invention 2 Innovation (i2I) certificate program online. This program provided insights into innovation, business development, and commercialization strategies.