hi , i am hila .

a researcher, designer, and mentor

Check Out My Resume

about me

As a passionate UX researcher and designer, my work is driven by an intellectual curiosity to understand human experiences and interactions. With a multidisciplinary background in architecture, human-computer interaction, and immersive technologies, I specialize in human-centered research that considers the social, cultural, behavioral, and environmental factors shaping experiences.

Currently, my research focuses on interpersonal communication dynamics between designers and engineers—a critical yet often overlooked area in both academia and industry. By identifying patterns and barriers, I aim to disrupt destructive communication cycles and foster more effective, inclusive collaboration. My mission is to create meaningful, user-centered, and AI-based solutions that transform how people and teams engage with technology and each other.

profile_image

education

2012 - 2016

Bachelor of Architecture

Azad University

Focused on the fundamentals of architectural design, human-centered design principles, spatial experience, construction methods, and innovative problem-solving approaches.

2020 - 2022

Master of Architecture

Iowa State University

Concentrated on advanced spatial design, user behavior analysis, and the integration of technology and sustainability.

2022 - 2023

Master of Scinece in HCI

Iowa State University

Explored the impact of effectiveness of guidance cues for visual targets in virtual environments.

2023 - 2026(expected)

PhD in HCI

Iowa State University

Exploring communication dynamics between designers and engineers to foster effective and inclusive collaboration and create meaningful, user-centered, AI-driven solutions.

top skills

Qualitative Research, Quantitative Analysis
Thematic coding, Concept Mapping
3D Modeling, Unity
idea generation, Concept diagramming
Problem Solving, Task Management
Project Planning, Time Management
Team Leadership, Mentoring
Cross-functional Teamwork, communication

experience

  • 2023 – 2026

    UX researcher & designer

    PhD Dissertation on designer-engineer teamwork

    Iowa State University, IA, USA

    Collaborating with experts in HCI, computer science, architecture, and communication studies to design experiments that uncover designer-engineer interpersonal communication patterns, with the ultimate goal of developing an AI-based tool to enhance cross-functional teamwork.

  • 2023 – 2025

    UX researcher & designer

    NSF-Funded Cybersecurity Research

    Iowa State University, IA, USA

    As part of an interdisciplinary team, I am exploring innovative pathways to introduce cybersecurity knowledge to rural English learners through XR-enabled educational tools. By leveraging user research and game development in Unity, we aim to create an immersive and inclusive learning experience that teaches middle school students the fundamentals of cybersecurity.

  • Summer 2024

    Research & 3D Modeling Mentor

    NSF REU (Research Experience for Undergrads)

    Iowa State University, Ai, USA

    Instructed nine undergraduates in Blender and mentored three students in creating a 3D mini-game on electric circuits for middle school English learners in rural areas.

  • 2022 – 2024

    University Instructor

    Architecture Studio Course

    Iowa State University, AI, USA

    Instructed second-year undergraduate architecture students in a 6-credit studio course, holding weekly desk crits, midterm and final reviews, and participating in field trips with over 100 students to Chicago, IL and Columbus, IN each semester.

  • 2022 – 2023

    UX researcher & designer

    Master Thesis on Sensory Cues in Virtual Reality

    Iowa State University, IA, USA

    Designed and executed a mixed-method user experience study on the effectiveness of guidance cues for visual targets in virtual environments.

  • Summer 2023

    Research & 3D Modeling Mentor

    NSF REU (Research Experience for Undergrads)

    Iowa State University, IA, USA

    Instructed nine undergraduates in Blender and mentored three students in creating a 3D mini-game 3D game to inspire first-gen, middle school English learners in rural areas.

  • 2022 - 2022 (eight months)

    Architect Intern

    Klingner & Associates, PC

    Pella, IA, USA

    Engaged in the site visit, design, and construction phases of four projects, produced technical drawings and 3D models, and collaborated in client meetings to listen to and document their requirements and desires.

  • 2016 - 2018 (~three years)

    founder, owner, designer

    Risen Design Architecture Studio

    Iran

    Managed the full design and construction process of nine industrial and residential projects, delivering them with fewer revisions and cost savings, while creating inclusive designs that met diverse client needs and earning recognition for excellence in client satisfaction.

publications

portfolio

Contact Me

Hila Sabouni

hsabouni[at]iastate[dot]edu

www.linkedin.com/in/hilasabouni