Irene

Currently I am working as a postdoc researcher at the DIOPD focusing on how to design and assess products contributing to the user’s happiness.

2009-2012

In 2009 I moved to Munich for my PhD project at BMW. At BMW I developed and studied car interior features that increase the pleasure and comfort experience of the driver and passengers without adversely affecting the weight of the car. I organized and participated in creative workshops as well as user centred research. At BMW I had the opportunity to combine my main interests: user centered design research and product development in industry in order to assist design professionals create successful, competitive products without compromising and possibly improving the well-being of people.

2006-2009

After graduation I worked as a freelance designer and researcher. During this period I cooperated with different companies and institutions such as TNO, TU Delft and Senz Umbrellas. My main activities involved developing prototypes and conducting comfort related research in the field of aircraft interiors and consumer products. Besides working as a freelance designer and researcher I was part of the Health, Safety, Security and Environment team for Exploration and Production at Shell, Rijswijk, the Netherlands. 

2000-2006

In 2000 I started my studies Industrial Design Engineering in Delft. I completed my graduation project “the future comfortable office chair” at Interstuhl Büromöbel in Tieringen, Germany for my masters Integrated Product Design. The research was focused on creating a comfortable office chair suitable for sitting as well as leaning enabling people to work at different table heights and different postures.