Ben Lester
About Ben Lester
Ben Lester is a Principal Scientist at Exponent, specializing in human behavior to enhance product and system design. He has a strong academic background in psychology, holding a PhD from the University of Oregon and has published several peer-reviewed articles on related topics.
Current Role as Principal Scientist
Ben Lester currently serves as a Principal Scientist at Exponent, a position he has held since 2024. He works on-site in Phoenix, Arizona, focusing on examining human behavior to assist clients in designing, developing, and evaluating products and systems that prioritize safety, efficiency, and user-friendliness. His expertise includes utilizing novel multi-dimensional methodologies to quantify human attention, performance, and limitations across various contexts.
Previous Experience at Exponent
Prior to his current role, Ben Lester worked at Exponent as a Managing Scientist from 2019 to 2022 and as a Senior Managing Scientist from 2022 to 2024. During his time at Exponent, he contributed to projects that involved understanding human behavior and its implications for product design and safety in Phoenix, Arizona.
Educational Background
Ben Lester has an extensive educational background in psychology. He earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from the University of Oregon, where he studied from 2007 to 2013. He also obtained a Master of Science (MS) in Psychology from the same institution, completing his studies from 2007 to 2009. Earlier, he received a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology from the University of Iowa, studying from 2003 to 2007.
Research Experience at University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics
Ben Lester served as a Postdoctoral Research Scholar at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics from 2013 to 2015. In this role, he engaged in research that contributed to the understanding of human behavior and its applications in clinical settings.
Published Research Contributions
Ben Lester has published multiple peer-reviewed articles focusing on the influence of mobile technologies, visual acuity, and gait patterns on stairway navigation and fall-related injuries. His research addresses critical aspects of human behavior and safety, contributing to the field of psychology and product design.