A lil' about me

Daphne Tian sitting outside on campus

I work at the intersection of human-centered data science, UX research, and human-AI interaction. My research focuses on how people reason, build trust, and make decisions in complex digital systems, especially when AI is part of the experience.

Recently, I've studied multimodal human-AI interaction through voice assistants designed to support older adults navigating online banking. I've also worked in industry on human-centered design research and CX analytics, translating user needs, behavioral patterns, and friction points into product insights.

Beyond research and design, I contributed to Canadian AI governance through Gen(Z)AI, helping develop policy recommendations that were later presented to policymakers on Parliament Hill in Ottawa.

Gen(Z)AI event at Parliament Hill in Ottawa
red eye to yow!

Education

University of British Columbia

Bsc. Computational Intelligence and Design

Minor in Data Science (Applied ML, Data visualization, Statistical inference)

2021-2026

Some things I've done

May 2025 - May 2026

HCI Undergraduate Research Assistant

University of British Columbia

Jan 2025 - April 2025

Human Centered Design Research Intern

TD

Sep 2024 - Dec 2024

Quantitative User Experience Research Intern

Global Relay

June 2024 - Sep 2024

Web Developer

University of British Columbia

May 2023 - Dec 2023

User Experience Design Coordinator Intern

Appnovation

Sep 2021 - April 2025

Exec @ various campus clubs

LaunchPad, nwPlus, URO, eProjects

When I'm not working or studying:

  • Endorphins

    Badminton, hiking, lifting, dance

  • Podcasts & books

    Non-fiction, mystery, thriller, sci-fi

  • Creative projects

    Drawing, tattooing, small builds

  • New recipes

    Trying whatever looks good

  • Walks with friends

    Long, unhurried, catching up