Lauren Smail
About Lauren Smail
Lauren Smail is a UX Research Intern at Kinaxis and a PhD candidate at McMaster University, where she focuses on sensory substitution technology for lower limb prostheses. She holds a Master's degree from McMaster University and a Bachelor's degree from Queen's University, and possesses expertise in sonification and user-centered design.
Work at Kinaxis
Lauren Smail has been employed as a UX Research Intern at Kinaxis since 2021. In this role, she focuses on user experience research, applying her knowledge and skills to enhance product design and usability. Her responsibilities include engaging directly with end-users to gather feedback, which informs her research designs. This user-centered approach is integral to her work, ensuring that the needs and perspectives of users are prioritized in the development process.
Education and Expertise
Lauren Smail is currently a PhD candidate at McMaster University, where she has been studying since 2018. Her research centers on developing sensory substitution technology aimed at assisting individuals who use lower limb prostheses. She holds a Master's degree in Psychology from McMaster University, which she completed in 2018, and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Queen's University, obtained in 2017. Lauren possesses expertise in sonification, a method that conveys information through non-speech audio signals.
Background
Lauren Smail's academic journey began at Queen's University, where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from 2013 to 2017. She then pursued a Master's degree at McMaster University, completing her studies in 2018. Following her Master's, she continued her education at McMaster as a PhD candidate. Her background in psychology informs her research and user-centered design approach, allowing her to effectively understand user needs.
Skills and Tools
Lauren Smail is skilled in various programming and data analysis tools, including Python, R, Matlab, JavaScript, SPSS, Dedoose, and NVivo. These skills enable her to conduct comprehensive data analysis and contribute to her research projects effectively. Her technical proficiency supports her focus on UX/UI, data science, and user research, as she actively seeks new opportunities in these fields.
Personal Interests
Outside of her academic and professional pursuits, Lauren Smail enjoys outdoor activities such as camping and yoga. She also has a personal interest in knitting clothing for friends and family, reflecting her creative side. These interests contribute to her well-rounded character and complement her professional focus.