Volunteer UX Researcher - Virtual Exterior Spaces (The Center for the Human Family)

Organization:

Think Round, Inc. - A nonprofit cultivating the fullest potential of home and family through art and science.

Location:

Remote (Flexible hours, collaborative environment)

About the Role:

Think Round, Inc. is seeking a dedicated UX Researcher to support the Virtual Center for the Human Family, with a focus on the design and development of its Exterior Spaces. This unique digital environment is part of a visionary initiative that addresses environmental restoration and healing from trauma through art and science.

You will work closely with our UX/UI Designer Widi and under the guidance of team lead Carissa to research and shape a calming, educational, and family-friendly virtual experience. This space is inspired by the environmental history of Hunters Point Shipyard, a former EPA-designated Superfund site in San Francisco, and reflects our commitment to environmental justice and healing.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct user research to explore how virtual exterior environments can evoke calm, curiosity, and connection to environmental restoration
• Compile competitive and comparative research on similar virtual experiences (e.g., mindfulness gardens, aquaponics systems, sustainable building showcases, family-centered outdoor learning zones)
• Explore interdisciplinary themes such as landscape architecture, public art, environmental science, Superfund site reuse, and trauma-informed design
• Collaborate with the design team to translate findings into wireframes, moodboards, and content briefs
• Help define user personas, use cases, and accessibility needs for diverse communities
• Clearly present findings to inform creative and technical direction

Ideal Candidate:

• Has academic or practical experience in UX research, psychology, digital product design, environmental studies, or a related field
• Passionate about using design and research for social and environmental good
• Detail-oriented, curious, and an effective communicator
• Comfortable working independently and collaboratively in a mission-driven, cross-cultural team
• Bonus: Experience with Figma, Miro, Notion, or Google Workspace

Commitment:

8-21 hours/week recommended

Minimum 3-month commitment

Flexible scheduling

Internship credit available

What You’ll Gain:

• Real-world experience designing for a visionary, trauma-informed, eco-conscious virtual environment
• Mentorship and collaboration with cross-disciplinary teams of developers, artists, and nonprofit leaders
• A meaningful portfolio project tied to global storytelling, sustainability, and family-centered learning
• Public recognition on Think Round’s website and materials

To Apply:

Apply through VolunteerMatch to this post and include your resume, LinkedIn profile, and/or portfolio (if available). Your application will come to [email protected] so make your contacts accessable to this email address Please include a short note on why this opportunity excites you.