Stephanie Tikkanen
UX Research Lead at Meta, former Communication Professor
Sunnyvale, California
Summary
Stephanie is a highly experienced mixed-methods researcher with over 13 years in the field, adept at using both quantitative (surveys, experiments, large-scale behavioral data) and qualitative (interviews, usability testing, in-depth studies) methods. Her expertise allows her to lead and support cross-functional teams throughout the product lifecycle, from foundational development to iterative design, particularly within ambiguous problem spaces, and she specializes in making complex information accessible. stephanietikkanen+1
Currently, Stephanie serves as a Research Lead in Emerging Business at Meta, focusing on Creator and Fan Monetization. In this role, she conducts iterative concept and usability testing to accelerate the launch and growth of creator products across Meta's platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Messenger), partnering with Product Management, Design, and Data Science to shape product strategy and roadmaps. stephanietikkanen+2
Prior to her industry career, Stephanie was an accomplished academic, holding positions as an Associate Professor at Ohio University and an Adjunct Lecturer at Santa Clara University. She taught communication theory and research methods at both undergraduate and graduate levels, advised students, and conducted research. Her teaching philosophy emphasized engaging students and leveraging technology for discussion, even in large lecture settings, as demonstrated by her case study on using Packback. stephanietikkanen+3
Her academic background includes a Ph.D. and M.A. in Communication from UC Santa Barbara, specializing in Quantitative Methods, Interpersonal Communication, and New Media. Her research interests span various communication topics, including sexual communication in BDSM relationships, social media, and online group dynamics, particularly in contexts like academic mothers' groups and the role of memes. stephanietikkanen+4
Work
Education
Writing
Hell Hath No Fury Like a Scorned Woman's Friend: Reflected Anger in Academic Mother* Online Groups
June 1, 2023Research focusing on reflected anger within online groups for academic mothers.
A communicative interdependence perspective of sexual communication and technology in bondage, domination, and sadomasochist relationships
January 1, 2020This paper examines sexual communication and technology in BDSM relationships through a communicative interdependence perspective.
Using Packback In Large Lectures
December 1, 2019Case study detailing how Dr. Tikkanen utilized Packback to facilitate online discussion and improve student engagement in a large, 400-student communication studies course at Ohio University, leading to increased student connection and valuable feedback for her lectures.
Memes as Art
April 1, 2018A review of related literature on how internet memes can be recognized as an art form, referencing a communication studies professor (Stephanie Tikkanen) who believes memes are a way to escape a bleak world.