Dana C. Gierdowski, PhD
Research Leader with corporate, nonprofit, and academic experience.
Meet Dana
I am a senior research leader specializing in user experience, accessibility, and inclusive product design. With deep expertise in mixed-methods research and research operations, I transform human stories into strategic insights that guide product vision, shape innovation pipelines, and help executive teams make confident, evidence-based decisions.
I currently serve as Senior Manager of User Experience Design, Research & Insights at Lenovo, where I lead global research initiatives across hardware, software, AR/VR, AI, and next-generation PC design. I build and develop high-performing research teams, establish scalable research operations, and deliver insights that directly influence product strategy at a global scale—including accessibility advancements recognized with multiple Lenovo impact awards.
Grounded in a PhD in Communication, Rhetoric & Digital Media, I bring a blend of analytical rigor, empathy, and operational excellence to my work. My experience spans Fortune 500 products, higher education systems, and specialized accessibility research, all driven by a commitment to creating experiences that serve every user.
Ph.D
Credentials & Education
Years of Experience
Project & Impact Scope
Sr Manager
Current Role
Professional milestones that shaped my research career
A comprehensive look at the key moments and achievements that have defined my professional path.
2011–2022
Conducted mixed-methods research and facilitated innovation workshops for clients such as Herman Miller, Steelcase, and the University of North Carolina system, establishing a long-standing foundation in user research and strategic problem-solving.
2018–2021
Led high-visibility studies with sample sizes of 30,000+ and delivered insights that influenced technology strategies across hundreds of higher education institutions worldwide, including the first EDUCAUSE study focusing on students with disabilities.
2021
Rapidly advanced into a leadership role overseeing research strategy, team development, global fieldwork, and multi-product research programs spanning hardware, software, AI, AR/VR, and accessibility.
2023
Directed global industrial design research that informed the development of the ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition—Lenovo’s first AI PC, launched in 2024.
2024
Received Lenovo’s Customer Impact Team Award and VP Award for Individual Excellence after leading groundbreaking research with blind/low-vision users, resulting in the first laptop keyboards with enhanced tactile cues.
Leadership &
Managerment
I am a people-first leader who builds high-performing research teams grounded in trust, clarity, and collaboration. I focus on developing talent, streamlining operations, and creating structures that enable researchers to do their best work. My leadership approach blends strategic vision with hands-on mentorship—balancing team growth, project execution, and stakeholder alignment to ensure research drives measurable business impact. Whether guiding global research programs or coaching early-career researchers, I lead with empathy, accountability, and a commitment to inclusive, user-centered innovation.
Peer Recommendations
Insights from industry leaders.
Let’s Connect!
Explore my latest updates on Linkedin or review my resume for more detail.