Amanda Baughan

UX Researcher @ Google (contract)
Adjunct Professor @ University of Washington
Seattle, WA
Hi there! I’m a researcher with a PhD in Computer Science from the University of Washington, where I focused on human-computer interaction and social computing. My work sits at the intersection of design, psychology, and technology, exploring how we can build digital experiences that foster connection. Currently, I work as a UX Researcher at Google Maps on a contract basis, and I teach design ethics at the University of Washington Information School.
I’m deeply interested in the ways people use communication technology and social media, particularly with the goal of increasing connection to oneself and others. My work on this topic has been covered by the Wall Street Journal, Scientific American, and NPR.
Previously, I was a UX Researcher at AI2’s Semantic Scholar, where I improved human-AI interactions in research discovery. Before that, I spent a few years at Google, working in Operations. Outside of research, I’m usually surfing, hiking, or indulging in yet another rewatch of Twilight.