Adam Downie
UX Designer & Researcher
Seattle,WA
Summary
Experienced UX Researcher and Designer with skills in analytical thinking, user-centered problem solving, and crafting intuitive digital experiences. Merged creative ideation with a research-driven approach to enhance user interactions. Proficient in research execution, insight synthesis, interface design, and cross-functional collaboration to drive user-centric solutions. Holds a certification in UX & Visual Interface Design from the University of Washington, specializing in usability, accessibility, and prototyping excellence.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Intelligence Analyst
Drug Enforcement Administration
04.2021 - Current
- Led high-priority investigative support by synthesizing complex data into actionable intelligence, directly informing inter-agency strategy and operations. Applied analytical rigor to uncover behavioral patterns, identify pain points in investigative workflows, and optimize communication across cross-functional teams. Partnered with stakeholders to define information needs, developed intelligence products, and ensured usability of findings through clear, data-driven visualizations and reports. This role cultivated key UX competencies such as user-centered analysis, systems thinking, and stakeholder alignment—skills reinforced through formal training and project work in UX research and design.
- Designed and developed secure internal systems to support mission-critical operations, improving efficiency and data accessibility across teams.
- Led the development of internal applications for a federal agency, streamlining workflows and supporting strategic initiatives with a focus on performance and security.
- Recognized for delivering high-impact intelligence products that shaped investigative strategy and improved outcomes through timely analysis and strong inter-agency coordination.
Administrative Assistant
CHARIS Counseling Associates
08.2019 - 07.2020
- Played a central role in enhancing team operations by managing payroll, processing expenses, and maintaining office systems. Focused on simplifying internal processes, reducing friction in day-to-day tasks, and supporting cross-functional collaboration with clear, organized communication.
- Developed internal programs to streamline payroll and office operations, reducing manual workload and improving data accuracy.
- Improved office systems and internal workflows to enhance day-to-day efficiency.
- Supported cross-functional communication between administrative and clinical staff, contributing to smoother operations and service delivery.
Front End Staff
Costco Wholesale
10.2018 - 07.2020
- Maintained high performance in a fast-paced, customer-facing environment by anticipating needs, streamlining service processes, and ensuring consistent quality and safety. Contributed to team efficiency through clear communication, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to a smooth, satisfying customer experience.
Education
Certification - UX & Visual Interface Design
University of Washington, Professional & Continuing Education
Seattle, WA 05.2001 -
Bachelor of Arts - Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences, Minor in Nonprofit Studies
University of Washington
Seattle, WA 05.2001 -
Skills
User research expertise
User experience design
System architecture design
JavaScript development expertise
HTML development
Wireframing expertise
User-centered design
Information architecture design
Accessibility design expertise
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Farm & Agricultural Developer
- Managed daily operations and led cross-functional projects to improve workflow, communication, and resource coordination. Identified inefficiencies in existing processes and implemented targeted improvements that enhanced team performance and operational clarity. Collaborated closely with team members to ensure systems were adaptable, practical, and aligned with day-to-day needs in a fast-moving environment.
INTERNSHIPS
Research & Development Intern, Healthbridge Global, Tacoma, WA
- Contributed to global health initiatives by developing grant proposals focused on access to care and long-term program sustainability. Collaborated with leadership to align funding strategies with organizational goals and coordinated with external partners, including foundations and agencies. Strengthened skills in research, strategic communication, and aligning solutions with complex stakeholder needs.
- Developed internal tools to support grant tracking, donor communications, and reporting workflows, improving efficiency and data accuracy across teams
- Composed grants to raise funds for hospital construction in Romania
- Coordinated with charitable foundations to explore partnership opportunities and align funding strategies with organizational objectives
- Managed grant calendars, reporting schedules, and stakeholder communications to support transparency and long-term donor engagement
Research & Development Intern, RAIN (Readiness Acceleration & Innovation Network) Tacoma, WA
- Supported grant proposals and funding strategy by working closely with scientists and leadership to translate complex technical innovations into clear, compelling narratives tailored to funder priorities. Helped shape communications that balanced scientific accuracy with strategic positioning, strengthening cross-functional collaboration, research synthesis, and audience-focused messaging.
- Communicated with The Norcliffe Foundation to help fund the acquisition of a MiSeq DNA Sequencer for cancer research
- Developed internal systems to streamline grant tracking and documentation, improving coordination between scientific and administrative teams
- Assisted in developing budgets, compiling supporting materials, and identifying funding opportunities from federal, state, and private sources
Timeline
Intelligence Analyst
Drug Enforcement Administration
04.2021 - Current
Administrative Assistant
CHARIS Counseling Associates
08.2019 - 07.2020
Front End Staff
Costco Wholesale
10.2018 - 07.2020
Certification - UX & Visual Interface Design
University of Washington, Professional & Continuing Education
05.2001 -
Bachelor of Arts - Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences, Minor in Nonprofit Studies
University of Washington
05.2001 -