Neuroscientist.
Qualitative researcher.
Consumer insights leader.
PhD neuroscientist with twenty-plus years across CPG, tech, and food. I've led global qualitative research for the world's largest technology platforms and consumer science for Unilever's skin care brands.
I’m available for select contract and fractional Head of Insights engagements
EXPERIENCE
Unilever · Ipsos · University of Chicago
RESEARCH AREAS
Skin Care · Sustainability · Sensory Science · Shopper Behavior · Search · Maps · Ads · AR/VR · Privacy
What I offer
Fractional Head of Insights
Embedded insights leadership for product, brand, and innovation teams
Product and brand strategy grounded in research
Oversight of research programs, vendors, and budgets
Retainer or single-project engagements
Qualitative research
End-to-end qualitative study planning and execution
In-depth interviews, ethnography, diary studies, usability testing, and more
Insights and recommendations tied to your short- and long-term goals
Behavioral science advisory
Expert input on consumer decision-making for strategy, product, and innovation teams
Workshops, advisory calls, and research audits
Track record
20+
years
12
countries
70+
qualitative studies
1000+
user interviews
Client-side at Unilever, agency-side at Ipsos, and and independent consultant to startups and nonprofits.
PhD in Neuroscience, University of Chicago. Published in Nature Neuroscience.
My research has informed:
Hardware design and testing for a pre-launch AR wearable
Emerging-market navigation features for a maps app used worldwide
Sustainability strategy for a global skin care portfolio
Customer acquisition strategy for a food-delivery startup
New ad formats for a global mobile advertising platform
I study everyday decisions: what people use, what they trust, what they buy, what they avoid, and the thinking behind it all. I've applied these questions across verticals, to physical products and digital ones, for global brands and early-stage companies.
My work
DEEP EXPERIENCE
Consumer packaged goods, consumer technology, food and beverage
EXPANDING INTO
Digital health, fintech, early parenthood, and aging
I read a lot of spy novels, and my day job runs on the same tradecraft: watching closely, listening for what goes unsaid, and distrusting the convenient explanation. I point those instincts at friendlier targets: what users need, where a product gets in their way, and what a team should do about it. I'm based in Chicago and work with teams anywhere. When I'm off the clock, I'm cooking or listening to 70s music.
About
Have a research question, a product decision, or a gap on your insights team? Tell me what you’re working on; most engagements start with a 30-minute call.
Let’s talk
Or reach me directly: me@sruthiswaminathan.com · LinkedIn