Hi, I’m Laurel Zhang


I am a multi-disciplinary designer with a background that is as logical as it is creative. Currently, I am an MGXD candidate at NC State University and a Research Assistant at the Laboratory for Analytic Sciences (LAS), where I explore the evolving terrain of Explainable AI (XAI).

From Engineering to Experience. My journey began in Mechanical Design and Manufacture. This engineering foundation instilled in me a rigorous, systematic approach to problem-solving—a perspective I now apply to digital experiences. In 2017, I co-founded a design studio in Nanjing, serving the education and tourism sectors. There, I learned that design is not just about aesthetics; it is about managing complexity, from securing funding to delivering over 300,000 units for local institutions.

Current Focus: Designing for Transparency. Today, my work addresses a pivotal challenge: How might we map out transparent interactions between humans and AI? At the LAS XAI Project, I design interfaces that help users understand and trust language analysis systems. By visualizing model confidence and adaptive recommendations, I strive to make the "black box" of AI accessible and actionable for human decision-makers.

I combine the precision of an engineer with the empathy of a designer to build tools that are transparent and fundamentally human-centered.

Core Competencies

  • Adaptive Agility & Rapid Learning: Leveraging over a decade of cross-industry experience, I possess the ability to quickly master new domains and technologies, thriving in evolving terrains where design meets complex technical constraints.

  • Systematic Thinking: Rooted in engineering logic, I approach design with a "big picture" mindset. I excel at connecting micro-interactions to macro-goals, ensuring that every design detail supports the broader system's stability and the project's long-term strategy.

  • Evidence-Based Design: Delivering robust design solutions grounded in empirical data and user workflows. I bridge the gap between research insights and final production through a systematic, iterative process.