Kristen L. Bowen

Hello, I’m Kristen Bowen, Ph.D.

I am a UX researcher who prioritizes a user-centered approach to design through advocating for qualitative research. My most recent role is a UX Researcher in digital experience and design at Centene Corporation. Before that, I was a contract UX researcher in product research at Reddit. I am seeking full-time employment opportunities conducting user-focused research. I have strong expertise in Social media-connected research with a focus on inclusive design.

My recent research experience involves the development of an innovative IVR research department and conducting user research supporting an increase in social media engagement. Beyond that, I have provided research services to faculty, staff, and students in various colleges. I engage in a user-centered approach to investigating the social media & technological experiences of various populations. I employ surveys and qualitative research methods to explore topics such as the following: the best practices for integrating remote work into the future to support diversity & inclusion; research into the online information behavior of those who have experienced pregnancy loss; a critical examination of the level of diversity within disability studies; exploring the information behavior of racial minority youth & developing services to support; and determining the information exchange experiences of Black adults, who have had concerns for their mental wellbeing in connection to surviving sexual violence.

I am affiliated with the Center for Critical Race & Digital Studies . In the summer of 2021, I completed an internship with Microsoft Research, where I designed and implemented a study on the remote work experiences of Black adults. From my research findings, I developed a guide to be published on Microsoft’s New Future of Work Initiative website, “Research-backed Guide: Basic Tips for Fostering Inclusion of Black American Employees.”