Design Research Lead - Chicago - IDEO

Description

Design Research Lead

We are looking for a Design Research Lead, interested in shaping, crafting and engaging in research activities across multiple programs in one of IDEO's fastest growing studios. This role is dedicated to large‑scale client relationships and strategic programs in the media, entertainment, and technology space. Our team is positioned as a Strategic Growth partner for a leading brand in the creative entertainment & technology space and we are looking for a leader who is interested in learning about the future of the digital media landscape but also helping to shape it through innovation strategy.

This Design Research Lead will guide our teams and clients through developing insights that inform, inspire, and fuel great design work. This role will report to one of our North American Studios and requires heavy collaboration with clients in both Pacific & Japan time zones. IDEO proudly supports flexible work; proximity to IDEO SF or ChIDEO is a bonus but not required. Travel to one of our studios for periodic in‑person collaboration will be expected.

Why is this role important for IDEO's work?

IDEO creates impact through design, creating outcomes for our clients that are desirable, viable, feasible, and responsible. Design Researchers help our teams and clients understand the lives of everyday people and culture to inform interdisciplinary teams. They treat research as a medium to discover, create, interpret, and communicate opportunities in an inspiring way, while contributing to all phases of the design process. Design Researchers at IDEO must think expansively and creatively about what kind of research is needed at different phases of the process; create compelling plans; contribute to creating prototypes; execute research; synthesize into opportunities, concepts, and strategies; and guide emotionally resonant storytelling. They are empathic, curious, and humble as they bring design teams and organizations closer to people's lives.

Once here you will:

• Lead interdisciplinary project teams who have different design backgrounds
• Develop cutting edge research plans tailored to each unique set of project outcomes and run the gamut from individual/group behaviors to broad cultural patterns
• Execute a wide variety of research methods and guide interdisciplinary teams in that process
• Lead teams through analysis and synthesis of findings in order to develop actionable, grounded insights
• Direct human‑centered strategy and storytelling that stays grounded in the outcomes of design research
• Contribute to prototypes and design concepts at all stages of the project: from early "sacrificial" ideas to more detailed design work

Relevant experiences/skills:

• Direct experience developing products, services, and experiences in digital media and entertainment, specifically in gaming, interactive entertainment, and emerging technologies
• Have an understanding of how entertainment businesses work (how value flows through a complex system) and an interest in media consumption trends and consumer behavior
• Direct experience conducting research with a variety of fandoms / fan communities
• Have 5-7 years of design/UX research, writing, or adjacent career experiences (e.g. journalism, content strategy, interaction design), education, or relevant lived experiences
• Depth in all qualitative methods, including ethnographic observation, interviews, diary studies, prototyping, etc.
• Are comfortable and conversant in best practices for quantitative methods, such as social media analysis, surveys, analytics, A/B or multivariate testing, and are eager to learn more
• Have global research experience working with diverse communities both domestically and internationally
• Have played a hands‑on role in helping turn insights into tangible products or other designed outcomes (we're looking for more than decks and research reports)
• Have knowledge of, and experience with, inclusive research practices
• Have exceptional written communication and storytelling skills, especially to clients unfamiliar with design research. Fluency in multiple media for storytelling is a bonus
• Have a point of view on the role of new AI technologies and tools in the research process

Key mindsets:

• Excited to bring your personal interests and passions to the role to provide a unique perspective to research—whether fan culture, modern art, trends in architecture, esports, music, 19th‑century history, gaming, or whatever gets you going
• Passion for learning from and understanding people who are much different than you and willingness to challenge your own assumptions
• Hunger to dig into human behavior and practices, going beyond the obvious to identify what is truly unique or different about what you're seeing in the world
• Have a voracious appetite for experimenting with new tools and technologies that push learning in new directions, reach people in new ways, or complement depth of insight
• Collaborative and adaptable: able to navigate team dynamics, timelines, and client contexts while delivering exceptional design
• Growth oriented and resilient: open to feedback, eager to iterate, and comfortable learning through experimentation and critique
  
• Curious and proactive: able to generate ideas, take initiative, and contribute wherever needed, from early exploration to final delivery
• Human‑centered: champions user needs and wants, holds space for multiple perspectives, advocates for diverse and equitable design

Some previous projects to check out:

• Is Gen Z ready to embrace AI? It's complicated.
• When AI enters the group chat
• How Ford transformed itself to take on the future of mobility.
• Designing the future vision for HBO

What does IDEO offer you?

IDEO is a place where you can solve diverse, complex challenges for our clients and their organizations, alongside thoughtful, intelligent individuals who lead with curiosity, empathy, and humility. We intentionally craft moments that allow our community to pause, create, and connect. We encourage our community to bring their whole diverse selves to work, respect the need for work‑life balance, and allow for autonomy in the design process and your career.

Payscale & Benefits

IDEO is committed to paying its employees, contractors & vendors equitably, regardless of gender identity or race/ethnicity/cultural identity.

The salary range for this role is $115,000‑$135,000 USD. Final offers may vary based on candidate experience, location, and other factors. As a full‑time position, this role is eligible for employee benefits.