Ben Alfonsin, Ph.D.

Info Work

ABOUT ME

Hi, I’m Ben — a researcher with an interest in improving product development through engaging, human-centered design.

I hold a Ph.D. in Media and Communication with a concentration in User Experience Research from Texas Tech University, where I led usability research at the Innovation Diffusion Lab and contributed to AI-driven public health projects in the Safety, Human Factors, and Resilience Engineering Lab. My academic work focused on how gamification and AI can motivate positive change in health contexts.

Since 2020, I’ve worked at the intersection of product, UX, and data analytics. I’ve partnered with local companies like Mad Hatter’s House of Games, and I have been recognized by my institution for my commitment to innovative research scholarship. I also successfully created, launched, and sold out my own tabletop game: Terms & Conditions Fae Apply.

Outside of work, I stay active by weightlifting and making music. I’m also studying for the Japanese-Language Procifiency Test (JLPT) and regularly support the local arts community by participating in exhibitions at the Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts.

EXPERIENCE

🎓 EDUCATION
Texas Tech University
Ph.D. Media & Communication
UX Research Specialization
2022-2025

Texas Tech University
M.A. Communication Studies
2020-2022

Texas Tech University
B.A. Communication Studies
2016-2020

🏢 WORK
Texas Tech University
Researcher
2021-2025

Simple Interact
Human Factors Intern
2024

Texas Tech University
Instructor
2020-2024

DTUAV
Quality Systems Intern
2018

Texas Tech University
Community Advisor
2017-2020