Madeleine P - Research Program Mentor | Polygence
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Madeleine P

- Research Program Mentor

MS at Georgia Institute of Technology

Expertise

Human-centered Design, Neuroscience in Technology, Applications of AI in digital product design, Creative Writting

Bio

I’m passionate about understanding how people think, feel, and communicate—especially through the power of storytelling. My academic journey blends neuroscience, behavioral psychology, and literature to explore how stories shape our minds, emotions, and identities. From studying Shakespeare to analyzing modern comic books, I’ve researched how story structure, character development, and visual language impact the way we connect with narratives. I’m also deeply interested in human-computer interaction (HCI), where I explore how technology can be designed to support creativity, communication, and emotionally resonant experiences. Whether through research or design, I love combining science, art, and technology to help people better understand themselves and each other. As a mentor, I’m excited to support students who are curious, imaginative, and eager to explore the connections between the brain, storytelling, and digital innovation.

Project ideas

Project ideas are meant to help inspire student thinking about their own project. Students are in the driver seat of their research and are free to use any or none of the ideas shared by their mentors.

Future Builders: Where Human Design Meets AI

How can we design intelligent applications that genuinely understand and enhance human experience, blending cutting-edge AI with intuitive human-centered design? In this project, you’ll step into the role of an AI-powered product designer. Build and design a prototype app while learning how to combine human-centered design with AI tools. In this project, you’ll explore how creativity and technology work together, gaining both technical knowledge (like prototyping and usability testing) and design thinking skills. Along the way, you’ll gain hands-on skills in creativity, problem-solving, and technical app development. Finally, you’ll have a functional prototype to showcase your ideas and ability to shape the future of technology.

Decoding Cognition: A Journey into Neuroscience, Technology & Society

How do the inventions we create also rewire our brains? From maps to AI—every tool we invent changes how we see the world. This project looks at how people design technologies and how those tools reshape the way we see time, space, and value. Along the way, you’ll practice advanced research and writing skills while building a deeper understanding of how brains and technologies co-evolve within society. By the end, you’ll have a strong researched paper that showcases your strong ability to synthesize an argument examining neuroscience, human-computer interaction and its influence on society.

Harnessing Big Ideas: Teaching Through Storytelling

How can a complicated idea, like a new science discovery, a moment in history, or an important social value, become easy to understand? In this project, you’ll take on the role of storyteller and designer, writing and illustrating a children’s book that both educates and entertains. You’ll practice the craft of storytelling, visual communication, and simplifying complex concepts for the audience of your choosing. By the end, you’ll have a polished book in your hands that highlights empathy, imagination, and your ability to make complex concepts understandable.

Coding skills

C#

Teaching experience

My teaching and mentorship experience spans a wide range of topics, including neuroscience, user experience, and digital product design. I’ve worked with students at the high school, college, and graduate levels, offering instruction in both the sciences and the arts. In the lab, I’ve led neuroscience courses that combined hands-on experimentation with in-depth literature reviews. In the tech space, I’ve taught Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), focusing on how cognitive science informs design and user experience. In the classroom, I’ve mentored projects in augmented reality and leadership, and created dynamic reading seminars on Shakespearean drama and modern comic books.

Credentials

Work experience

White Label Storage (2025 - Current)
Product Strategy & Design Manager
Window Nation (2024 - 2025)
Senior Product Designer
ServiceMaster Br (2024 - 2021)
UX Designer

Education

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
BS Bachelor of Science (2021)
Neuroscience
Georgia Institute of Technology
MS Master of Science (2023)
Human-Computer Interaction

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