DENNY L. STARKS

UX RESEARCHER & DESIGNER

About

01 about

Hi!

I'm a comic book nerd who also enjoys human-centered research and design.

My research explores how Black trans communities develop, navigate, and sustain infrastructures of care across physical and digital environments. I am particularly interested in how community networks, chosen families, mutual aid, and digital technologies support collective safety, well-being, and experiences of joy.

Building on my previous research with Transgender Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (TBIPOC), I examine the role of safety labor in navigating everyday risks, maintaining relationships, and sustaining community care. Through community-centered and participatory research methods, I seek to understand how these infrastructures evolve over time and how technologies might better support existing practices of care, safety, and connection.

P.S. Batman is better than Superman. Just saying...

Philosophy

02 philosophy

Be.

I believe it's essential to pause and reflect on the work and needs of the users during the design process

Do.

I want to help create positive change in the world. I want my research and designs to positively impact the users' lives and give them some fulfillment.

Have.

I am continually realizing my biases and trying to unpack them, which will help me moving forward as a researcher. Pausing and reflecting will help me grow as a researcher and designer and create positive impacts on the world.

Portfolio