Rishika Shah

Design Researcher & Strategist

contact@rishikashah.com | LinkedIn

Insight-driven design researcher with a background in communication design and user-centered strategy. Experienced in turning qualitative research into actionable frameworks and business-aligned UX strategies. Seeking roles that bridge design research, strategy, and innovation.

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Projects

Strategic Training Framework for Robotic Surgery

Client: Alcon x Elisava | Role: Design Researcher | Oct '24 - Jan '25

Led future-focused research on ophthalmic robotic surgery via trend forecasting and expert interviews. Proposed a gamified VR/AI training ecosystem for surgeons with a phased roadmap aligned to Alcon's 2030 innovation goals

GearMatch: Smart Gear Comparison for Runners

Client: Zalando x Elisava | Role: UX Strategist & Researcher | May '25

Co-developed a smart product comparison feature using interviews, surveys, and archetype mapping. Validated MVP through usability testing with runners to boost engagement

Experience

The Space at 9/2, Kolkata

— Junior Designer | Feb '23 - Jun '24
  • Developed the rebranding and packaging strategy for a luxury fashion label, Pink City, ensuring alignment with the brand's heritage and positioning
  • Designed consistent visuals for Bombaim, boosting online engagement by 12.5% over a year
  • Collaborated with creative leads to unify brand experience across channels

ValueLabs UXG, Hyderabad

— UX Intern | Jan '22 - May '22
  • Redesigned UX for prenatal platform Aaryajanani, improving usability and signups
  • Conducted heuristic evaluations, user research, and wireframing
  • Assisted editorial publication for an NGO, working cross-functionally to shape both structure and narrative

Kreo Design & Innovation, Bangalore

— Design Intern | Jun '21 - Aug '21
  • Designed packaging and digital assets for clients including Bosch India and Malabar Jewellers
  • Supported brand research and concept development

Education

Masters in Research for Design & Innovation

| Sep '24 - Jul '25

Elisava Barcelona School of Design & Engineering, Barcelona, Spain

B.Design in Communication Design

| Jul '18 - Aug '22

National Institute of Fashion Technology, Kolkata, India

Skills

Research & Strategy: Qual & Quant Research, Insight Synthesis, Service Design, UX Strategy, Journey Mapping, Trends Research, Futures Thinking
Design & Prototyping: UI/UX, Brand Identity, Wireframes, Prototypes
Tools: Figma, Framer, Adobe Suite, Miro
Collaboration: Cross-functional Teams, Visual Storytelling, Critical Thinking