I am a mixed-methods researcher with over 7 years of experience in examining human learning processes, driven by a passion to create better learning and user experiences for people worldwide. My work experience spans education, technology, and healthcare, unified by a commitment to designing and evaluating research questions through a deep understanding of objectives and context.

Currently, I serve as a Learning Research and Design Specialist at Math Made Visible, where I spearhead the design, development, and implementation of innovative high-quality eLearning products across multiple subjects, leveraging state-of-the-art technology and research-based practices to create measurable impacts on student performance and bridge learning gaps in K-12 education. Additionally, I hold the position of Senior Research Associate at winded.vertigo, where I drive innovative research initiatives that explore the transformative power of playful learning experiences, designing and implementing studies that challenge conventional educational paradigms and support the development of dynamic, interconnected learning ecosystems that foster growth, creativity, and lifelong curiosity.

I obtained my PhD in Cognitive Psychology and MS in Statistics and Data Science from Northwestern University in March 2024. My research focuses on investigating the cognitive mechanisms underlying human learning processes, primarily working with infants and children. I conducted human participant research across various age groups, predominantly using experimental design and methods. My work has been published in journals such as the Nature Human Behavior, Journal of Experimental Child Psychology, and Current Opinions in Behavioral Sciences. I have also presented my research at several international conferences, including those hosted by the Cognitive Science Society, Cognitive Development Society, Society for Research in Child Development, and Society for the Improvement of Psychological Science.

Recommendations

  • "On three separate occasions, we've brought her in to expand work first started by others, and she's found ways to elevate each project. She takes the time to really listen to research objectives and relevant context to understand what we're trying to learn or accomplish and finds the right method - qualitative or quantitative - to address these objectives and deliver new insights. She's thought of ways to address research questions that have stumped even the most skilled analyst on my team."

    Lisa Hurwitz
    Director of Impact Research, Newsela

  • “She hopped into research plans at all stages, whether the project was already underway or still in the works, and executed her tasks efficiently. She is a strong mixed-methods researcher, supporting quantitative and qualitative research designs and data to synthesize the results, identify pain points, and produce actionable client recommendations.”

    Rachel Schechter
    Founder, Learning Experience Design (LXD) Research

  • “Apoorva is a hard worker who produces meaningful results and then packages them in an easy-to-understand presentation or report. She had no problem picking up new statistical techniques to enhance her analyses.”

    Kayleigh Ryherd
    Lead Research Analyst, Newsela

  • “I was awarded the opportunity to win a grant from Northwestern's research office and asked Apoorva if she would act as my mentor in writing my application. Apoorva took personal time from other projects to ensure my success by sitting down with me multiple times to brainstorm, organize, edit, and discuss the grant writing process. Through her exceptional communication and astounding patience, I became a grant recipient. Her mentorship during that project was truly exemplary."

    Rachel Epstein
    Undergraduate Research Assistant, Northwestern University

  • "Apoorva's strengths include attention to detail and follow-through, in addition to her brilliance and thoughtfulness as a researcher. I could rely on Apoorva as a trusted thought partner on everything from RCTP course logistics to our research study design and data analysis."

    Kiki Zissimopoulos
    Assistant Professor of Instruction & RCTP Instruction Coordinator, Northwestern University