DATA-
DRIVEN
Projects
Experience
Degree
Fernando Luna
Indianapolis local from Lima, Peru and West Orange, New Jersey. In UX and HCI since 2018 with a recently completed HCI Master's, specializing in accessible, inclusive design and mixed-methods research. On the side: vintage textiles and streetwear photoshoots.
Core Expertise
Featured
POTS Access Technology
Designed a companion app and smart cane for managing Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). This research-driven solution provides real-time heart rate episode detection, guided breathing exercises, and symptom logging to support daily independence.
Key Highlights
- Mobility, POTS & Episode Management: Heart rate escalates noticeably when standing for extended periods — a leading indicator of an episode
- Cognitive Accessibility & Communication: POTS rarely shows up alone — ADHD, dyslexia, and POTS overlap meaningfully for many users
- Sensory Preferences: Screen contrast matters more than layout — contrast is the load-bearing accessibility variable
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More Projects
Energy Insights Network (ESN)
Energy monitoring dashboard for manufacturing
Canvas AI-Assisted Quiz Creation
AI-assisted quiz creation research for Canvas faculty
Nike Vision — AR Virtual Try-On
Browser-based AR glasses try-on experience
Wave & Watch — Gesture-Controlled Smartwatch
Gesture-based smartwatch accessibility prototype
Case
Deep dives into my research process. Click the poster to explore, or view the full case study.
Spotify Un(Wrapped)
Music discovery & social listening UX research
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Research Assistant — IU Indianapolis
HCI research across two labs
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Rethinking Identity & Anonymity on Threads
Social media identity research
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Research & Design Process
How research insights, testing data, and performance constraints inform design decisions. Scroll to explore each phase.
Understanding People & Context
Every meaningful design begins with people. I investigate user behaviors, lived experiences, and the systems surrounding them—grounding insights in both qualitative and quantitative data. At the same time, I map real-world constraints to ensure solutions are not just desirable, but viable and responsible.
Framing & Exploring Solutions
With a clear understanding of needs and constraints, I translate insights into opportunities. I explore interaction patterns, evaluate design directions, and test ideas against defined criteria—turning ambiguity into intentional, informed concepts.
Prototyping, Testing & Iteration
I bring ideas to life through rapid prototyping and continuous testing. Each iteration is shaped by real user feedback and measurable outcomes—ensuring the final solution is not only usable, but meaningful and effective in context.
Why This Matters
Great design isn't just about solving problems—it's about solving the right problems, for the people most affected.
This approach ensures every decision is grounded in real human needs, shaped by constraints, and validated through evidence. By balancing empathy with rigor, I create solutions that are not only functional, but responsible, scalable, and impactful in the real world.